Young people, gaming and gambling: what parents need to know

Published on 23 October 2026

Gambling Harm Awareness Week (24 to 31 October), an annual statewide campaign, shines a light on the impact gambling can have on individuals, families and communities.

Harm from gambling can range from financial, relationship, emotional or psychological issues to serious legal or health issues. 

How young people are exposed to gambling

Gambling advertising, betting content and gambling‑like features in games, such as loot boxes, now reach young people through the phones, apps and games they use every day. Research suggests that repeated exposure can normalise gambling, shaping attitudes and behaviours long before young people are legally able to gamble.

Many of these products are designed to keep people playing and spending, while regulation hasn’t kept up with rapidly changing technology. Preventing harm should not rest on young people and their families; the gambling industry, government regulators and the media all have a role to play.

Young adults are the most affected age group, with more than one in four Victorians aged 18 to 24 who gamble experience gambling-related harm.

How you can help

Parents and carers can make a difference by talking with young people about the gambling content they see online and the games they play.  

If games include loot boxes or in-game purchases, consider enabling parental controls and purchase approvals.

More tips for parents and carers are available at Be Ahead of the Game.

Help and support

If you or someone close to you is experiencing harm from gambling, including from a family member’s gambling, free and confidential support is available from Gambler’s Help Southern on 9575 5353 or Gamblers Help Program

Young people under 25 can contact the Gambler’s Help Youthline at any time on 1800 262 376.

Published for Gambling Harm Awareness Week 2026.