Australia a Nation of Bad Gamblers

AUSTRALIA – As reported by the Australian Associated Press: "Australians lost an average of $1,000 (US$679) each on gambling last year - two and a half times more than they lost 25 years ago.

"National gambling statistics released showed more than $15 billion (US$10.18 million) was gambled away nationwide in 2001-02.

"The figure works out at $1,017 for every adult Australian, up $28 on the previous year and nearly 250 per cent higher than the inflation-adjusted figure of $408 for 1976-77.

"…Total gambling turnover rose 6.6 per cent to $125 billion (US$84.44 billion) compared to the previous year.

"…Per capita, Northern Territorians were the heaviest losers, frittering away an average $1,576 each into pokies, horses, casinos, lotteries and other forms of gambling.

"In NSW, $1,212 was gambled away, while Victorians lost an average of $1,180.

"West Australians, who don't have pokies in their pubs and clubs, were the lightest losers, at $469.

"…Over the past 25 years, the total amount spent on gaming, particularly pokies, has rapidly overtaken a punt on the dogs and horses…"

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