Jacqueline McGowan-Jones: Video games are indoctrinating kids into gambling addiction

In recent years the issue of gambling among young people has increased alarmingly. The explosion of online gambling platforms, the normalisation of betting in popular culture, and targeted marketing strategies all contribute to children becoming vulnerable to the lure of gambling. A significant factor contributing to this crisis is the rise of online gambling. With just a smartphone and an internet connection, young people can access countless gambling sites and apps at any time and from anywhere. Unlike traditional forms of gambling, which are often restricted by age and location, online platforms can blur these lines, exposing minors to gambling content and opportunities prematurely. Research has shown that while video games can be fun, there are strong links between gaming and gambling. Many games have elements of gambling and children as young as 10 are playing them. A survey in NSW found that 40 per cent of young people play video games with gambling components — they spend real money buying virtual currency, skins or opening loot boxes, so they can advance further in the game. This can normalise monetised gambling among young people. Media and social media heavily promote gambling, from sports with betting companies to gambling-themed reality shows. Young people are inundated with messages that suggest gambling is a fun and harmless activity and this cultural acceptance can lead to the misconception that gambling is merely a form of entertainment, obscuring the potential for addiction and financial hardship. Social media influencers glamorise betting, making it seem like an easy way to make money, and this can be a huge risk factor for young people who are still developing their understanding of risk and reward. While brains are still developing our children and young people cannot grasp the long-term consequences of their actions. They are vulnerable to peer pressure and the desire for social acceptance may exacerbate the risks associated with gaming and gambling, which can negatively impact social and emotional (and financial) wellbeing. The potential for loss is great and, combined with the ease of access to credit and digital wallets, can lead to spiralling debts, a vicious cycle of gambling, and mental health issues. Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach. Education is key; young people must be equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions about gambling. Additionally, regulations must be tightened around advertising, particularly in spaces frequented by young audiences. Parents and guardians must foster open conversations about gambling, helping to promote responsible behaviour. By encouraging young people to think critically about gambling and its implications, we can help them navigate this complex landscape safely. As gambling becomes more accessible and ingrained in our culture, the responsibility lies with all of us — educators, parents, policymakers, the gambling industry and society as a whole — to protect young people from the potential dangers of gambling. By promoting awareness and fostering open discussions, we can help create a safer environment for the next generation, ensuring that gambling remains a choice, not a trap. Jacqueline McGowan-Jones is the WA Commissioner for Children and Young People. Gambling Harm Awareness Week runs until October 25