The Guardian Australia has reported that documents obtained through freedom of information (FoI) laws reveal that the University of Sydney held shares in major gambling companies, including Aristocrat, Australia’s leading online casino software provider and the world’s largest poker machine manufacturer—and Entain, the global betting giant behind Ladbrokes and Neds, between 2021 and early 2024. These findings have raised concerns about the university's connections to the gambling industry and the potential conflicts of interest arising from industry-funded academic research.
Ethical Concerns
Student representative council president Angus Fisher criticised the investments, stating they conflicted with the university’s commitments to social equity. “Gambling-related harm disproportionately affects vulnerable communities, and the industry’s role in funding research can lead to perceived or actual conflicts of interest,” Fisher said.
The 2023 parliamentary inquiry into online gambling had already called for measures to “protect public policy and research from gambling industry interference.” Public health expert Prof Samantha Thomas echoed these sentiments, suggesting the gambling industry should be treated like tobacco due to its societal harm. “It is disappointing to see these relationships with the gambling industry,” she said.
University’s Response
A spokesperson for the university defended its investment strategy, stating the institution is a “not-for-profit entity” that reinvests revenue into research and teaching. They also emphasised policies are in place to ensure research remains robust, ethical, and free from undue influence.
While Aristocrat has justified its research funding as contributing to better understanding gambling harm, Entain has defended its involvement, advocating for “fact-based decision-making” in gambling regulation.
Wider Debate
The Guardian’s revelations have sparked broader debates about the ethical responsibilities of universities when it comes to financial investments. Critics argue institutions must weigh financial sustainability against the societal impact of profiting from industries like gambling, which are linked to addiction and exploitation.
As the conversation continues, the spotlight remains on the University of Sydney’s practices and the implications for transparency and accountability in higher education.
