Australia continues to rank among the world’s top gambling countries. In 2025, new data shows a surge in betting activity, both online and traditional gambling, reflecting evolving spending habits and player preferences.
This article explores the latest gambling statistics in Australia, covering turnover, expenditure, government revenue, and participation rates. Whether you’re a concerned citizen or active gambler, this article clearly explains the current state of gambling in Australia and what it means going forward.
Gambling in Australia by the numbers
- Total turnover: In the 2022-23 financial year, Australians gambled AU$ 244.3 billion, an 18.2% increase from the previous year.
- Total expenditure: During the same period, Australians lost approximately AU$ 31.5 billion to gambling, surpassing the amount spent on Aged Care by the government.
- Online gambling turnover: Online betting turnover increased by 165.7% year-on-year to AU$ 75.4 billion, 31% of the country’s total gambling turnover.
- Per Capita losses: The average gambling loss per Australian adult increased by 11.5% in the 2022-23 financial year, reaching AU$ 1555.
- Participation rate: In 2024, approximately 60.3% of adults engaged in gambling, a slight decline from 65.6% in 2019.
- Weekly gambling: approximately 38% of Australian adults reported betting at least once a week, with frequent gamblers being men.
- Online gambling participation: Around 33.4% of Australians engage in online gambling, mostly on sports and racing.
- Risky gambling behaviour: The number of individuals participating in high-risk gambling behaviours increased to 13.6% in 2024, from 11.6% in 2023.
Total gambling turnover and expenditure figures
In the 2022-23 financial year, the amount staked before winnings increased to AU$ 244.3 billion, an 18.2% increase from the previous year. This surge represents a rebound in post-pandemic betting activity, with participants returning to physical betting locations and online platforms continuing to grow.
The surge was particularly experienced in online betting, which now accounts for almost a third of total turnover.
Alongside this turnover, the actual losses sustained by players reached AU$ 31.5 billion. This figure underscores the impact the Australian betting business has on households, placing Australia among the countries with the highest per capita betting losses in the world.
National gambling trends by year
Over the past decade, the Australian gambling landscape has evolved significantly. One of the most notable trends is the rise of online gambling. In the 2022-23 financial year, total gambling turnover increased to AU$ 244.3 billion, an 18.2% growth from the previous year. Online gambling saw the most dramatic rise, accounting for AU$ 75.4 billion, up 165.7%, and accounting for one-third of the overall gambling activity.
By 2024, approximately 60.3% of Australian adults reported engaging in gambling activities. However, overall, betting activities have seen a slight decline since 2019. Notably, online gambling increased dramatically, overtaking in-person betting, which dropped to 28.6%.
Smartphones remain the most dominant devices driving the shift toward online gambling, especially sports and race betting. Meanwhile, land-based gambling is recovering gradually. Casino turnover surged by 22.6% in 2022-23, suggesting an ignited interest post-COVID. However, accessibility and convenience continue to make online betting the most favourable among players.
These trends hint at a long-term shift toward digital gambling in Australia.
Impact of COVID-19 on Gambling Activities and Revenues
The COVID-19 pandemic reshaped gambling behaviours across the globe, with one of the most affected nations being Australia. Due to the lockdowns, many gambling shops and casinos were forced to close down. As a result, many Australians shifted to online gambling platforms. The convenience of betting apps and the 24/7 access resulted in an online gambling turnover rising to over 165% by 2022-23.
One of the most alarming concerns was the rise in gambling frequency. The rate of individuals engaging in gambling activities over four times a week rose from 23% before the pandemic to 32% during the lockdowns. This gambling behavioural shift was especially rampant among men and younger adults.
The psychological effects of isolation, job loss, and uncertainty led to higher rates of problem gambling and financial stress. Mental health experts reported increased cases of gambling-related anxiety, debt and strained relationships.
Australian gambling statistics by gambling activity
Gambling in Australia comprises different activities, each contributing differently to overall participation and associated harms. While lotteries take the larger portion of the gambling industry in Australia, other forms, including electronic gaming machines and online betting, present higher risks of addiction and financial stress.
Gaming machines (Pokies)
Electronic gaming machines, also called pokies, are widely used across Australia. Approximately 200,000 pokies are in operation across the country. In 2023, electronic gaming machines generated approximately AU$ 12.5 billion in revenue. Despite a significant decline in pokies over the past two decades, these machines remain a significant cause of gambling-related problems in Australia.
Casinos
Land-based casinos in Australia generated around AU$ 5.114 billion in revenue in 2023. These gambling establishments offer various betting options, including table games and pokies. While casinos contribute significantly to the Australian economy, they also cause significant harm, especially electronic gaming machines.
Lotteries and scratchies
Lotteries are the most popular gambling activities in Australia, with an estimated adult participation of 64%. Despite economic pressures and gambling-related problems, lottery participation remains resilient. It is often perceived as a low-risk form of gambling and less addictive.
In 2023, the Lottery Corporation reported a 13.8% surge in annual revenue to AU$ 4 billion.
Keno
Keno is a less popular gambling activity played in clubs and pubs. It offers quick draws and modest stakes. In the 2018-19 fiscal year, Australia reportedly lost over AU$350 million, with New South Wales accounting for AU$150 million of these losses.
While Keno is not as popular as other gambling activities, it remains a popular choice for social gamblers.
Interactive (Online) gaming
Online gambling in Australia has grown significantly thanks to the convenience and accessibility of mobile gaming apps. As of December 2024, user penetration was expected to hit 24% with an estimated revenue of AU$ 15.4 billion.
Wagering (Sports and race betting)
An average of 34% of Australian adults engage in sports and race wagering, with a notable increase among younger demographics. The average expenditure per player is AU$ 1,300 annually. The proliferation of online betting and targeted advertising has significantly contributed to the rapid growth of this sector.
Australian stats on gambling revenue
Gambling is a huge source of revenue for the Australian government. In the 2022-23 fiscal year, gambling generated substantial tax revenues exceeding AU$6 billion.
State and Territory Breakdown
- New South Wales: AU$ 114.6 billion in turnover. New South Wales delivered the highest gambling tax revenue of over AU$2 billion.
- Victoria: Victoria saw a substantial turnover of AU$ 44.1 billion, generating almost AU$ 1.9 billion in gambling taxes.
- Queensland saw AU$ 56.5 billion in turnover, earning over AU$ 1.3 billion in gambling revenue.
- South Australia: AU$ 11.7 billion in gambling turnover.
- Western Australia generated AU$ 10.0 billion in gambling turnover.
- Tasmania: AU$ 351.8 million.
- Australian Capital Territory: AU$ 3.5 billion.
- Northern Territory: AU$3.6 billion.
Over time, gambling revenue has steadily increased, paralleling the rise in online gambling.
Online gambling statistics in Australia
The online gaming sector has experienced exponential growth in the recent past. As of 2024, the market was valued at USD 5.2 billion, and is expected to reach USD 8.9 billion by 2033. This rapid growth is primarily attributed to the convenience and accessibility offered by online gaming apps.
The majority of online betters are males aged 18 to 34. Among the most popular online gaming activities are sports betting, online poker and virtual casino games, collectively dominating the digital gaming landscape.
In response to the problems and concerns related to online gambling, the Australian government introduced new regulatory terms in August 2024 banning players from using credit cards for online betting to minimise financial harm and promote responsible betting.
