The Problem with the Gambling Industry and Political Support
Gambling, particularly through pokie machines, has become deeply embedded in Australian society. It is a multi-billion-dollar industry that continues to expand, with both major political parties supporting legislative changes that regulate rather than eliminate it. However, as Christians, we must evaluate every aspect of life through the lens of Scripture and biblical convictions.
I firmly oppose pokie machines and the gambling industry because they exploit human weakness and contradict biblical principles of righteousness, justice, and care for the vulnerable. These machines are intentionally designed so that the house always wins. They do not offer a fair or legitimate game of chance but rather a system built for addiction and financial loss. Furthermore, the way gambling revenue is distributed between government bodies and stakeholders reveals a deeply flawed and manipulative financial system that preys on those who can least afford it.
Despite claims of harm minimisation strategies, the damage caused to individuals and families remains immense, and the response from authorities is often superficial. My conversations explore the biblical foundations for opposing the gambling industry and why I believe political parties should reject pokies outright rather than regulate and relicense them.
1. Biblical Convictions Against Gambling and Exploitation
A. Gambling Preys on the Vulnerable
The Bible consistently speaks against exploiting the weak and vulnerable. God’s heart is for the poor, the oppressed, and those burdened by life’s struggles. The gambling industry, especially pokie machines, targets those who can least afford to lose.
- Proverbs 22:16 – “Whoever oppresses the poor to increase his own wealth, or gives to the rich, will only come to poverty.”
- Isaiah 10:1-2 – “Woe to those who decree iniquitous decrees, and the writers who keep writing oppression, to turn aside the needy from justice and to rob the poor of my people of their right.”
Pokie machines are not mere entertainment—they systematically drain wealth from individuals, particularly the poor, elderly, and mentally unwell. Research shows that the majority of revenue from pokies comes from problem gamblers, meaning the industry thrives on addiction. This is exploitation, and Scripture is clear—God will hold accountable those who prey on the weak.
B. Gambling Undermines Biblical Stewardship
Christians are called to be good stewards of their resources, using money wisely to care for their families, help those in need, and advance God’s kingdom. Gambling, by its nature, is a reckless misuse of money.
- 1 Timothy 6:10 – “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs.”
- Proverbs 13:11 – “Wealth gained hastily will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it.”
The biblical model for financial success is hard work, wise management, and generosity. Gambling fosters a mindset of greed, entitlement, and recklessness, encouraging people to seek quick wealth rather than honest labor and disciplined savings—contrary to God’s will.
C. Gambling Destroys Families and Communities
The consequences of gambling addiction are devastating: financial ruin, broken families, mental illness, and even suicide. The fruit of gambling is destruction, and Jesus warns us about the dangers of leading others into sin.
- Luke 17:2 – “It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck and he were cast into the sea than that he should cause one of these little ones to sin.”
- Matthew 6:24 – “No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.”
The gambling industry thrives by trapping people in financial and emotional ruin. This is not just an issue of personal responsibility—it is a systemic evil promoted by corporations and government bodies that profit from addiction.
2. The Problem of Government Support and Legislative Failures
A. The Flawed Distribution of Gambling Revenue
One of the most troubling aspects of the gambling industry is how its revenue is distributed. While governments claim that pokies contribute to public funds, the financial cost of problem gambling far outweighs any supposed benefits. Gambling taxes create a moral conflict—those who are supposed to protect the vulnerable are profiting from their downfall. This is a perversion of justice and a direct contradiction of biblical principles.
- Proverbs 29:4 – “By justice a king builds up the land, but he who exacts gifts tears it down.”
- Micah 6:8 – “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”
A government that prioritizes gambling revenue over the well-being of its people is failing in its God-given role to establish justice and care for its citizens.
B. The Failure of Harm Minimisation Strategies
Despite the introduction of harm minimisation strategies, the gambling industry continues to thrive, and problem gambling rates remain high. These strategies are often superficial and fail to address the root problem.
The industry may claim to offer “self-exclusion programs” and “limit-setting features,” but pokies are designed to be addictive, rendering these measures ineffective.
- Jeremiah 22:3 – “Thus says the Lord: Do justice and righteousness and deliver from the hand of the oppressor him who has been robbed. And do no wrong or violence to the resident alien, the fatherless, and the widow.”
True justice would mean banning pokie machines entirely, not making minor adjustments while allowing this industry to continue destroying lives.
3. A Call for Christian Action and Government Reform
A. The Church’s Responsibility to Speak Out
Christians cannot remain silent. We are called to advocate for justice and stand against the exploitation of the vulnerable.
- Proverbs 31:8-9 – “Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute. Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy.”
Churches must challenge political parties and demand the complete banning of pokie machines. Regulatory changes are not enough—the problem is the existence of these machines.
B. Political Leaders Must Prioritise Justice Over Profit
The responsibility for this injustice lies not only with the gambling industry but also with politicians who allow it to continue. Leaders must be reminded of their duty to uphold justice and care for the vulnerable rather than prioritizing revenue.
- Psalm 82:3-4 – “Give justice to the weak and the fatherless; maintain the right of the afflicted and the destitute. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.”
The gambling industry, particularly through pokie machines, exploits human weakness and contradicts biblical values. It preys on the vulnerable, undermines financial stewardship, and destroys families and communities. The fact that both political parties continue to support regulation rather than abolition is a failure of leadership and justice.
As Christians, we must take a stand. We must call for a complete ban on pokies, hold our leaders accountable, and advocate for justice on behalf of those who suffer. God’s command is clear—He desires justice, righteousness, and the protection of the weak. It is time for us to act.
