A recent study conducted by the New South Wales (NSW) government has found a strong association between problem gambling and late-night pokies play. The study, which surveyed over 2,000 people from across the state, found that those who gambled after midnight were more likely to have a gambling problem than those who gambled during the day.

The study also found that problem gamblers were more likely to play pokies for longer periods of time and to spend more money on them. They were also more likely to play in venues with higher stakes and to use ATMs located in the venue.

The findings of the study are concerning, as problem gambling can have serious consequences for individuals and their families. Problem gambling can lead to financial hardship, relationship breakdowns, mental health issues, and even criminal behaviour. It is important that people are aware of the risks associated with gambling and take steps to protect themselves from becoming problem gamblers.

The NSW government has taken steps to reduce the prevalence of problem gambling in the state. These include introducing pre-commitment technology on pokies, restricting the number of pokies in certain areas, and introducing a ban on late-night pokies play.

The findings of this study demonstrate the importance of these measures in reducing the prevalence of problem gambling in NSW. It is clear that late-night pokies play is a risk factor for problem gambling and should be avoided. The NSW government should continue to take steps to reduce the prevalence of problem gambling in the state, including further restrictions on late-night pokies play.