Nothing left to lose: Problem gambling and crime

Tasmanians are losing more money every year to gambling – and nearly half the money is lost by people with a gambling problem. This report examines all cases heard in the Tasmanian Supreme Court over a six year period where the judge made comments on the link between gambling and the crime. The report shows gambling problems can lead ordinary people to do things they would not ordinarily do including committing significant crimes. The report recommends a therapeutic jurisprudence approach, a wider range of sentencing options and better consumer protection to prevent gambling problems developing.