Dr. Sally Gainsbury from the University of Sydney discusses the importance of sustainable gambling tools that can benefit all players, not just those with gambling problems. While these tools are meant to help customers understand their gambling habits and avoid harm, many view them as irrelevant or confusing. Research shows that customers are more likely to use these tools if they have a positive attitude towards them, see others using them, and find them easy to engage with.
It is essential for gambling companies to promote these tools effectively by integrating them into player accounts and making them user-friendly. By utilizing AI technology to suggest appropriate limits based on a player’s past behavior, companies can encourage responsible gambling practices. Additionally, customers should define and stick to a budget, understand the games they are playing, and be aware of their biases to ensure sustainable gambling habits.
One key tool that customers have requested is a way to track their spending, allowing them to make informed decisions and monitor their behavior over time. The Australian government’s mandate for online wagering companies to provide customers with activity statements showing their wins and losses is a positive step towards transparency and accountability. Dr. Gainsbury’s team at the University of Sydney is conducting research to better communicate with regular gambling customers and encourage the use of sustainable gambling tools through co-design techniques involving various stakeholders.
Overall, the focus is on advancing harm minimization efforts in a dynamic and engaging manner to promote responsible gambling behavior. Dr. Gainsbury’s research is independent and transparent, with no stakeholder influencing the methodology or analysis. The goal is to create innovative approaches that benefit all parties involved in the gambling industry.
