A new report from the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) showed a troubling pattern: over one in ten Australians have gambled online within the last half-year. This marks a notable rise since 2020, as the figure climbed from 8% to 11%, as per the “Australians’ Online Gambling” poll carried out in June 2021.
The poll also emphasized the increasing prevalence of athletics and racing betting, with 8% of Australians confessing to placing bets on these contests in the preceding six months, a jump from 5% in 2020.
This investigation was ordered to comprehend how the COVID-19 outbreak has affected internet gambling behaviors. The ACMA discovered that an alarming 16% of internet gamblers indicated a surge in their gambling regularity compared to the time before the pandemic.
Adding to these anxieties, the ACMA also issued a desktop analysis concentrating on partner marketing schemes that advertise internet gambling. This analysis disclosed that the payments disbursed by these schemes were considerably larger than those observed in other sectors.
Disturbingly, the investigation also exposed that social media networks and streaming platforms like Twitch are becoming progressively common channels for gaming businesses to connect with prospective clients.
In a declaration, the ACMA stressed its dedication to safeguarding Australians from the dangers linked with internet gambling.
Back in 2017, the Australian government initiated a serious campaign to combat unauthorized international online gambling platforms. They prohibited all websites illicitly providing casino-style gaming and similar activities to Australian citizens.
Authorities have already forced the closure of numerous such websites, approximately 354 to be exact, and are pursuing individuals involved in their promotion as well.
