Problem gambling well hidden, but seeking help should not be feared
Every year, the New South Wales Independent Liquor and Gaming Authority releases its annual figures showing the year-on-year increase in the state’s gambling habits. These increases are now anticipated, expected and even budgeted for in the state government’s revenue streams. The suffering of an individual and their family from the presence of a gambling problem can be destructive beyond measure, yet gambling’s very existence has become a lucrative dependency for the governments and industries which facilitate, and now rely on it. New South Wales is the state most addicted to gambling in Australia, with Fairfield in Sydney’s west the most addicted suburb. Hot on its heels is Newcastle – which has a claim to fame as having 1 poker machine for every 52 people in its local government area. The incredible and staggering facts and figures representing the flood of money being poured into the pokies should heed concern throughout the community. Gambling can be a dark and