Two-thirds of people playing NSW pokies before 8am are problem gamblers or at risk, research shows

Exclusive: Earlier closing times could help protect gamblers, study commissioned by government says

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Almost two-thirds of people playing poker machines into the morning are problem gamblers or at moderate risk of developing a problem, with research commissioned under the previous New South Wales government suggesting earlier venue closures could help protect punters.

The Roy Morgan research, prepared for Liquor and Gaming NSW, found that 22.8% of those playing poker machines between 2am and 8am are problem gamblers, while 41.8% were classified as “moderate risk problem gambling”.

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