The ACT Gambling and Racing Commission has reported a worrying number of gambling harm incidents during the now-concluded 2025/26 financial year. Overall, there has been a 53.5% jump in incidents from a year prior, with 199 incidents per day recorded.
The total number of gambling-related incidents reached 72,647 – more than twice the number from a year earlier, when only 47,337 such incidents were recorded. Gambling-related incidents have been in an upswing, with the 2024/2025 financial year also seeing a 50% jump in such signals.
The bulk of these incidents usually connected to venues hosting poker machines, or pokies as the locals call them, and have to do with multiple cash withdrawals. According to independent MLA Thomas Emerson, the latest figures further highlighted the need for stronger government action to reduce gambling-related harm.
Emerson added that the ACT Government has been looking to strengthen consumer protection measures by looking into solutions such as further restricting gambling advertising and reducing poker machines, along with other reforms.
Gambling-related problems have been well-documented in the state, with an estimated 1 in 6 ACT adults experiencing the issue, in various degrees. The numbers have been on the rise since 2023, with the state looking to enact more changes and help people who are at-risk or already experiencing gambling-related issues.
Measures Are in Place, But Policy Changes Needed for Stronger Impact
Apart from gambling, however, people who are affected by gambling issues face financial stress, debt, mental health issues, and failed social relationships.
The ACT continues to support affected individuals through its Gambling Helpline at 1800 858 858, but the government is also looking to actively bolster its consumer protection through targeted policy decisions.
While the ACT proposes further restrictions on the highest-risk activities, such as poker machines, a challenge from offshore operators remains.