Massive sum gamblers are losing to the pokies every year
A new study has revealed just how much cash poker machines rake in from the Aussies that play them.
Moderated by Tomas Kauer 
New research has revealed the scale of Australia's pokies problem, with gamblers on average forking over far more than safe amounts of money.
Australian Institute of Health and Welfare data has shown that one third of Australian adults use poker machines at least once a year.
Excluding Western Australia, where poker machines are banned outside of Perth Casino, that equates to about 6.6 million people.
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New analysis by The Australia Institute revealed that between them, these gamblers lose about $13 billion a year, or more than $1950 each on average.
Based on an updated version of the most detailed study of gambling in the country, The Australia Institute found the amount an average gambler can afford to lose on poker machines is $301 per year, known as their "low-risk gambling limit".
"Poker machines are making a killing from problem gamblers," analysis author Skye Predavec said.
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"If the vast majority of poker machine profits come from risky gambling rather than those who gamble responsibly, it's time politicians treated the industry in line with the harm it causes."
She said Australians were losing "vast sums" they could not afford to.
"This can have a terrible impact on their personal finances, health, work and wellbeing, which, in turn, impacts families and relationships," she said.
There are many different ways to get help and information about gambling. You can visit the National Gambling Helpline or call on 1800 858 858.
