Cultural communities

People from South Australia’s Culturally and Linguistically Diverse communities are less likely to take part in gambling activities compared to the wider community, but those who do gamble may be more at risk of problem gambling.

Some people from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse communities might be especially vulnerable to risky gambling because:

• it’s a way to become part of the community
• gambling venues can be welcoming places if you're feeling isolated
• it’s an escape from challenges like poverty and disadvantage
• it’s more accessible and visible than it was in their homeland
• there is a tradition of gambling in their culture.

International students are also an at-risk group because they are away from families and friends, they may be feeling pressure to succeed, and many are young people more likely to take a risk.

People from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse communities who gamble at risky levels face the same kind of harm as people from the wider community — damage to finances, relationships, jobs and health.

But they may find it harder to reach out for help because of the stigma and shame of problem gambling in their community, or because support like counselling is not part of their culture. Some people may try to deal with their gambling on their own or within their families. Others may seek help outside their community to keep their problem private, and some might prefer to talk to someone with from within their community who understands their circumstances.

South Australia has gambling services that recognise different languages and cultures for people from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse communities.