Under questioning from the independent Member for Kurrajong, Thomas Emerson MLA, the ACT Gambling and Racing Commission revealed in Budget Estimates today that reported incidents of gambling harm in the Territory rose to 72,647 in 2025-26 - a more than 50 per cent increase from the previous year.
The Commission’s latest annual report shows there were 47,337 reported gambling harm incidents in 2024-25, which was itself an almost 50 per cent increase compared to 2023-24, with the majority comprising money-seeking behaviour like making multiple cash withdrawals.
All reported incidents relate to gambling harm in venues with poker machine licences.
Mr Emerson said the statistics highlighted the need for meaningful gambling harm reforms in the ACT.
“An average of 199 reported gambling harm incidents occurring across our community every day is a terrifying statistic,” said Mr Emerson.
“Canberrans overwhelmingly want to see meaningful reform to reduce gambling harm in our community.
“The ACT Government’s consultations on restricting gambling advertising and reducing pokies-related gambling harm have found strong support for intervention, but no action has been taken.
“New South Wales and Victoria have introduced mandatory gaming room closures from 4am to 10am in an effort to reduce gambling harm in pokies venues. Earlier this year, the Gaming Reform Minister acknowledged that the ACT Government is considering this, so why haven’t they done it yet?
”Consultation and consideration are important first steps, but when there’s significant community support for reform, we actually need to see action. “The ACT Government’s not moving anywhere near quickly enough to tackle gambling harm in our community.”
Mr Emerson said the Government’s inaction on gambling harm reduction raised questions about the influence of the gambling industry on the political decision-making process.
”Banning political donations from the gambling industry seems to be a necessary first step here,” said Mr Emerson.
Mr Emerson is currently running a community survey seeking Canberrans’ views on gambling reform options for the ACT, which is open until 16 August 2026.
MEDIA CONTACT: Will Devine | [email protected] | 0402 183 296
BACKGROUND:
In June 2026, Thomas Emerson introduced a Private Member’s Bill that seeks to ban political donations from the gambling industry. The bill has already been supported publicly by the Australia Institute, the Canberra Gambling Reform Alliance, and the Public Health Association of Australia.