Reducing Gambling Harm and Domestic and Family Violence in Diverse Communities

The Diversity Programs and Strategy Hub at Sydney Local Health District (the District) is shining a light on the link between gambling harm and domestic and family violence. 

A recent survey by the Australian Gambling Research Centre found 73 per cent of adults gambled at least once in 2022, with 38 per cent gambling at least once a week. The survey included a focus on gambling in culturally and linguistically diverse communities in Australia and identified that people who spoke languages other than English were 14 per cent more likely to experience gambling-related harm.

GambleAware Gambling Counsellor Vivien MacJohn said "Harm from gambling places significant stressors on relationships, families and communities and can intersect with, and increase the risk of, domestic violence."

"Gambling-related domestic and family violence can take many forms within families. For example, a partner with a gambling problem may control the household finances as part of a pattern of domestic violence. Gambling losses may contribute to more frequent and severe violence, and may mean families do not have enough money to meet basic needs," Ms MacJohn said.

"In contrast, people who experience abuse may turn to gambling as a way of managing the stress and impact of the violence, which can contribute to the development of gambling problems. We know addressing the link between gambling-related harm and domestic violence is a crucial step to supporting the safety of victim-survivors and connecting people who use violence with services to address their behaviours."

"The stigma associated with gambling often stops people seeking help," said Ms Barbara Luisi, Director of the District's Diversity Programs and Strategy Hub. "This can cause problems to escalate quickly, leading to more financial strain and relationship issues, all of which can contribute to domestic and family violence."

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. You can contact the GambleAware Helpline for free, confidential advice on 1800 858 858 or visit the GambleAware website for more information.

If you or someone you know is experiencing violence or abuse, you can call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732.

Translated information

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