Gambling Help WA

Loot boxes are a common feature in many games, but they’re not always as harmless as they seem.

They often involve spending real money for random rewards, which can feel a lot like gambling.

The uncertainty, the “near wins", and the urge to try again can make it harder to stop than expected.

Research from the Australian Institute of Family Studies shows a clear link between loot boxes and gambling harm.

Read more here: https://aifs.gov.au/research-programs/australian-gambling-research-centre/loot-boxes-simulated-gambling-video-games-harms

If you or someone you know is experiencing gambling harm, we are here to help.

(08) 9325 6644 https://www.gamblinghelpwa.com.au

🏉 Derby Day energy:

✔️ Yelling at the TV.
✔️ Group chat going OFF.
✔️ “This is a SURE thing” 👀.

Suddenly you’re 5 bets deep.

Before the first bounce, do your future self a favour:

💸 Set a limit (yes, a real one).
🚫 Don’t chase your losses.
🧠 Remember: it’s footy, not a financial strategy.

Cheer for your team, not your bets.

Win or lose, the goal is to walk away feeling good.

For more information on Gambling Help WA’s free counselling service visit https://www.gamblinghelpwa.com.au or call (08) 9325 6644.

New research from Deakin University found 525 women aged 18 to 40 had been exposed to betting promotions online often framed as fun and harmless through influencers, athlete partnerships and novelty bets.

Gambling Help WA team leader Phoebe Smith says there has been a noticeable increase in gambling advertising across Instagram, TikTok and even dating apps.

You can read the article in Curtin University's newspaper The Western Independent below.

For more information on Gambling Help WA's free counselling service visit: https://www.gamblinghelpwa.com.au/
or call (08) 9325 6644

https://westernindependent.com.au/2026/03/26/going-for-bust/

Going for bust The rise of gambling advertising on social media is increasingly targeting young women.