The National Gambling Toll calculates the financial losses of Australia’s addiction to gambling. Between March 2025 and March 2026, Australians lost $36.0 billion to gambling. Without comprehensive reform, this toll will only continue to grow. 

The Toll begins counting from 1 July 2023, the month after the Murphy Review released its final report on the impacts of online gambling: You win some, you lose more, which recommended a total ban on advertisements for online gambling.

When considering the Murphy Review’s recommendation for a full ban on advertising for online gambling, it is important to note that most advertisements for gambling are for online gambling. 

Key points

• On a per person basis, Australians lose more money to gambling than any other country. 
• Losses have increased every year since the COVID-19 pandemic, and participation in online gambling is a significant driver of the growing toll.
• Four in five Australians support a total ban on on gambling advertisements including on TV, radio and online.
• The significant growth in online gambling and online gambling losses indicates that the advertising is working exceedingly well for the gaming companies.