The NSW Gambling Survey is a representative, population-based survey of NSW adults. It is the primary source of data about gambling participation, behaviour and attitudes in NSW and the prevalence of gambling problems and gambling harm. The survey is conducted every 4-5 years and the most recent NSW Gambling Survey occurred in 2019. With the proliferation of sports betting marketing and the diversification of gambling products and offerings, it is critical to have an updated understanding of any changes in gambling behaviour, the prevalence of gambling problems and any other emerging trends. State-wide prevalence research is the most reliable source of information on gambling and gambling harm in NSW.

The 2023 survey will measure the prevalence of gambling participation and gambling harm across different gambling segments in NSW. The survey will include questions about the gambling activities of NSW residents, aspects about their gambling behaviour, demographic information, problem gambling risk factors, the positive and negative impacts of gambling behaviour, gambling regulation and awareness of responsible gambling and services. Research results will be compared with previous NSW prevalence studies and with other Australian prevalence studies where relevant. Findings from the survey will help inform gambling policy and program activity and to ensure that carefully targeted harm minimisation measures in NSW are utilised to their full effect.

The research project will be commissioned and managed by the Office of Responsible Gambling (‘the Office’), on behalf of the Responsible Gambling Fund. The Office has a commitment to assess and monitor over time the impact of gambling and the extent of gambling problems, as well as regional differences and the characteristics of vulnerable people and populations.

The key activities of the research project are to design, implement, analyse and present the findings of a comprehensive gambling participation and gambling-related harm study from an adult participant sample that is representative of the NSW population. This will involve:

Designing a methodology for the conduct of a state-wide gambling participation and gambling harm study

Developing the survey design, sampling strategy, survey questions, methodology and planned analyses in close consultation with the Office, informed by the latest best practice research methods

Administering the survey to NSW residents resulting in at least 10,000 completed surveys (or the minimum survey sample accepted in the final agreed research methodology)

Preparing 2023 data tables and data files in a usable format such as MS Excel and SPSS statistical software package

Data cleaning and manipulation, including weighting, re-coding, computation of variables and testing of the 2023 data to ensure consistency with previous data sets

Conducting a thorough analysis of the data, highlighting any significant differences

Providing a technical report appended to the research report

Producing an easy-to-understand report of a publishable standard which reflects feedback and direction from the Office, and the findings of the independent peer reviews of the report. The report should outline the aim of the study, the methodology used and the results found, and reflect the structure agreed to with the Office and the provided template and style guide.

The Office welcomes responses to this open tender from a range of applicants.