Australians lost a record $1.7 billion on online betting platforms in 2025, according to a new study from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW). The figure represents a 15% increase from the previous year and underscores the growing prevalence of digital gambling.
Study details and key findings
The AIHW report, released on Monday, analysed data from the five largest online wagering operators, including TAB, Sportsbet, and Bet365. It found that the average monthly loss per active online bettor rose to $245, up from $210 in 2024. Men accounted for 72% of total losses, with those aged 25-34 the heaviest spenders.
“The scale of online gambling losses is alarming and demands urgent action,” said Dr. Sarah Miller, lead author of the study. “We are seeing a shift from traditional forms of gambling to digital platforms, which are more accessible and harder to regulate.”
Industry response and regulatory calls
The report has reignited calls for stricter regulations, including a ban on credit card betting, tighter advertising restrictions, and a national self-exclusion register. The Alliance for Gambling Reform described the findings as “a national disgrace” and urged the federal government to implement a mandatory levy on gambling companies to fund harm prevention.
“These losses are not just numbers; they represent families torn apart by addiction,” said spokesperson Tim Costello. “We need a comprehensive strategy that includes a ban on inducements and a cap on online betting turnover.”
In response, the gambling industry pointed to its existing responsible gambling measures. A spokesperson for the Australian Wagering Council said, “Our members are committed to harm minimisation, including mandatory pre-commitment limits and real-time spending alerts. We are working with regulators to improve player safety.”
Impact on households and economy
The study also highlighted the broader economic impact, with problem gamblers accounting for 40% of total online betting losses. The AIHW estimated that gambling harm costs Australia $7 billion annually in health, social, and productivity losses.
“The government cannot afford to delay action,” said Dr. Miller. “Every dollar lost online is a dollar that could have been spent on essentials like rent, food, and education.”
The report comes as the federal government considers the findings of a parliamentary inquiry into online gambling, which is expected to recommend a raft of new regulations later this year.
