The Sunday Herald Sun has reported that playing pokies, or slots, is rife amongst underage gamblers. The newspaper has suggested that 2.5% of Victoria’s teenagers could be classed as problem gamblers, observing that even younger children often gamble in “underground” poker and other card games.
The newspaper has suggested that pokies venues often offer a wide range of children’s entertainment, which they have noted acts as a lure for impressionable youth. The Herald Sun also refers to a report by the Australian Council of Social Service, who found that 20% of regular gamblers began wagering whilst underage.
While the newspaper’s claims are of course serious, their assertion that pokie venues, such as bars and clubs often offer children’s events in an effort to attracting potential underage gamblers is a bold statement.
It’s unlikely that the aforementioned entertainment centres would risk their license in an effort to encourage younger patrons to gamble and the idea that without pokies, pubs are completely child-friendly should also be assessed. After all, a pub is a place usually designated for those who want to consume alcohol and management no doubt prefer adults in their establishments, as opposed to children.
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