Is your love of sport turning into a losing bet? A state government campaign is teaching South Australians how to say “no” to gambling – and it’s being backed by some seriously big names.
It feels like you can’t escape sports betting and gambling ads. They’re everywhere. And they’re influencing us by making gambling seem like a normal, safe and easy way to make dough.
That’s why a campaign, by the Department of Human Services’ Office for Problem Gambling, is calling out the risks of sports betting and teaching ways to protect ourselves and the next generation from the negative effects of gambling – and a bunch of professional sports clubs including the Adelaide United Football Club, Adelaide 36ers, Adelaide Giants, Adelaide Football Club and, most recently, the Adelaide Thunderbirds, are on board.
Background
Seventy-five per cent of young people aged 8 to 16 can name one or more sports betting companies. Twenty-five per cent can name four or more.
Thirty-two per cent of sports bettors in SA gamble at risk levels, compared to 27 per cent of poker machine players and 12 per cent of gamblers generally.
These statistics aren’t good, but they’re real. That’s why campaigns like Here For The Game are so important.
Here For The Game is about getting South Aussies up to speed on the massive growth in sports betting losses and advertising spending, and providing education on how it can potentially harm you, your kids, your family and your mates. Its next iteration, Don’t let betting Spoil Sport, also provides advice on how you can protect yourself and loved ones from the dangerous aspects of sports betting – but reminds us of the experience and enjoyment of sport that still exists without gambling.
We chat to Here For The Game ambassador Hannah Petty
Hannah Petty is a courageous midcourter who’s been a Thunderbird since before she could vote. The Wudinna-born athlete led her club to the ultimate success in 2023, playing in her first Suncorp Super Netball finals series and bringing home the trophy for her first premiership. She’s now in her fourth year as captain of the Adelaide Thunderbirds.
“It’s a super exciting campaign and it’s really about bringing the joy of sport back to sport,” says Hannah.
“It’s about getting out on the court or supporting your team and players and staying clear of the betting because that’s not what we all play the game for as professional athletes and as players in the community.”
Of sports betting and gambling, “It’s had a pretty negative impact,” she says. “We want to get people in the stands focusing on what’s happening on the court or on the field rather than what’s happening on their phone.”
When it comes to protecting children and teenagers from the risks and potential harm of gambling and sports betting, Hannah highlights the importance of education.
“Mostly it’s about having that conversation early and saying, yes, this is around sport, but that’s actually not why you’re involved in it, that’s not why we watch sport,” she says. “It’s about supporting your team, supporting your players, and leaving it at that.”
As for adults who want to break the unhealthy habit or suspect someone they know may have a problem, “the biggest piece of advice I can give,” says Hannah, “is to go to the Here For The Game website and follow all the prompts there because they can lead you in the right direction of getting some help and finding that enjoyment in sport again”.
Is betting spoiling sport? How to talk to your mates about it
Worrying more about your multi than the outcome of the game? Watching a game to make a quick buck? Unreasonably annoyed when results don’t go your way?
If this sounds like you or someone you know, it might be time to have a chat. You can find a bunch of tips at hereforthegame.com.au, but here are a few to get you started:
- When chatting, remember to keep it simple. Say things like “Are you ok?”, “What’s going on for you right now?” or “You don’t seem like yourself”. Don’t overthink it.
- You might be worried that having a tough conversation will impact your friendships, but letting your mates know that you’re not judging and you’re just worried about them is really important. If someone isn’t ready to talk about their gambling, reassure them that you will be available when they are.
- Talk about the safety nets, like setting limits, deposit amounts or services like BetStop.
- Share real life experiences so they – or you – know you are not alone. You can read the personal stories of gamblers, family and friends and counsellors here.
What the fans have to say
Here For The Game has already proved successful in raising awareness and educating the community about the risks attached to sports betting:
- Eighty-six per cent of fans agree or strongly agree there is too much sports betting today.
- Ninety-four per cent of fans support their team’s decision to say no to sports betting sponsorship.
- Ninety-one per cent of fans are proud their team is part of Here For The Game.
Are you part of a sports club and interested in joining Here For The Game?
The Here for the Game Community Program provides awareness and education for local sports clubs to tackle the growing presence of sports betting. Join more than 50 community clubs that have already signed on to the free program to say “no” to gambling.
Even if sports betting isn’t an obvious problem at your club, raising awareness among members and setting a good example for young people, supporters and the whole community goes a long way. And did you mention it’s free for all South Australian sports clubs?
Register your interest here.
