Video Gaming and Gambling

The Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation is dedicated to addressing gambling harm in the Victorian community. As part of its mission, the Foundation focuses on the intersection of video gaming and gambling, particularly among young people.

Should You Be Concerned About Your Teenager’s Gaming?

Like most technologies, gaming has both positive and negative aspects. While gaming can foster socialisation, teamwork, critical thinking, and decision-making skills, there are potential risks, especially with the blurring lines between gaming and gambling.

The Convergence of Gaming and Gambling

• Similarities: Both activities involve elements of skill and chance, and they are accessible through the same devices and online platforms.
• Gambling-like Elements: Modern games often include features such as loot boxes, which mimic gambling mechanics.
• Advertising: Gambling advertisements are increasingly present within gaming platforms, potentially normalising gambling for young people.

Potential Risks for Young People

• Exposure to gambling content may make gambling seem normal or harmless.
• Young people may not fully understand the risks or potential for harm associated with gambling.

Resources for Parents

The Foundation provides resources to help parents navigate the challenges of gaming and gambling:

• Fact Sheets:
  • Young people and gambling: information for parents and teachers
  • Gambling among secondary school students – factsheet
  • Understanding gaming – a guide for parents
  • Why teens like gaming
  • Is my teen gaming too much?
  • Understanding and managing your child’s in-app purchases
  • Loot boxes: how children are being exposed to gambling-like harm in video games
  • Setting boundaries for a healthy online life
  • Top tips for parents

Be Ahead of the Game: A School Education Program

The Foundation’s School Education Program aims to educate students, parents, and teachers about the risks of gambling and gaming. It provides tools to help young people make informed decisions and develop healthy gaming habits.

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Last updated: 30 August 2022
Printed on: 26 February 2025

The Foundation acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the Traditional Custodians of the land and pays respect to their Elders, past and present. We support the Uluru Statement from the Heart.

Visit the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation