The University of Sydney invests in leading gambling companies.

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The University of Sydney is under scrutiny following the disclosure of information obtained through freedom of information requests, revealing that the institution holds investments in Aristocrat, one of the world's largest slot machine manufacturers, and Entain, a major sports betting and gaming company.

Ethical concerns raised over University of Sydney’s investment in gambling companies

Reports from various media outlets have sparked ethical concerns regarding the relationship between the university and the gambling industry. The Guardian, referencing the university's student representative council, revealed that the council obtained original information showing that companies provided funding to academics and gambling research centers to support relevant research. While this may initially appear problematic, it is common practice for the gambling industry to fund research in responsible and problem gambling, a necessity that has intensified with increased regulatory demands. Moreover, gambling firms have an interest in addressing problem gambling and ensuring consumer safety to avoid substantial financial penalties, as witnessed by The Star Entertainment and Crown Resorts. According to media sources, the university has invested in these companies, with information obtained through freedom of information requests. Despite this, public perception is critical as the University of Sydney has reportedly maintained ties with these companies since 2021, though some media speculate the relationship began earlier. The exact scope of these financial contributions remains uncertain according to reports, but the University of Sydney has, at the very least, investments in International Game Technology, another manufacturer in the gaming industry.

stated council president Angus Fisher, as reported by The Guardian.

No clear delineation between research body and private company

The Guardian gathered opinions from prominent advocates on gambling issues, including Tim Costello from the Alliance for Gambling Reform, who criticized the connections between established institutions like the University of Sydney and the gambling industry. According to Costello,

Meanwhile, both Entain and Aristocrat have stated that they have historically funded research to better understand what leads to problem gambling in individuals. The main concern here, however, is that the university itself appears to have financial interests in the gambling companies it collaborates with. In Europe, it's common for gambling companies and research entities to work together openly to gain insights into gambling behaviors and triggers, utilizing the extensive data available from gambling companies.