Answer ... Gambling is firmly embedded in Australian culture and is fuelled by an inherent passion for sports, racing and gaming. Gambling is an important industry in Australia and contributes significantly to its gross domestic product. Despite the sizeable contribution of the gambling industry to the Australian economy, there exists social pressure on government and operators to heighten measures in relation to consumer protection and to minimise problem gambling.

In Australia, there is a general prohibition in all jurisdictions on the conduct and promotion of gambling. Legislative exemptions exist for gambling activities that are conducted under a licence.

These activities include:

• lotteries (both in venue and online);
• wagering and sports betting (both in venue and online);
• electronic gaming machines, slot machines and ‘pokies’ (in venues); and
• land-based casinos where casino games – including poker, baccarat and blackjack (among others) – can be played.

The paternalistic approach to the regulation of gambling services by Australian federal and state and territory governments is a response to the concerns that arise from the adverse social consequences associated with gambling. However, gambling has long been a part of Australia’s culture and identity and, together with racing and sport, is well established in the national consciousness.

State and territory-based regulation of gambling in the early 20th century marked the beginning of the legislative regime in place today. With the introduction of online wagering in the late 20th century, the industry continues to flourish, despite the continuing conflict between the economic returns provided by the gambling sector to state and territory governments and sporting and racing bodies, and the pressure for governments to take action to minimise problem-gambling behaviour.