In some Australian suburbs, pokies are more common than "post boxes, ATMs, or public toilets" according to a Grattan Institute report in 2024.

That fact underlines the fact Australia has the largest per capita gambling losses in the world. Pressure has been mounting on the federal government to do more in the wake of a parliamentary inquiry into online gambling, led by the late Peta Murphy. 

When federal parliament returns, the Independent Member for Kooyong will introduce a private member's bill to officially define gambling harm as a risk to public health.

• GUEST: Dr. Monique Ryan, Independent Member for Kooyong
• PRODUCER: Isadora Bogle