National Association for Gambling Studies (NAGS)
The National Association for Gambling Studies (NAGS) is Australia’s premier not-for-profit organisation dedicated to advancing research, discussion, and evidence-based policy on gambling and gambling-related harm. Operating as an open and inclusive forum, NAGS brings together a diverse membership base comprising researchers, government agencies, clinicians, community sector representatives, venue staff working in harm minimisation, and individuals with lived experience of gambling. The organisation’s core mission is to foster collaboration across these groups to promote a public health perspective on gambling and to minimise gambling-related harm in the community. NAGS achieves its objectives through several key activities: hosting an annual conference that serves as a platform for cutting-edge research presentations and stakeholder networking; offering scholarships for emerging researchers to attend the conference; planning research grants that support projects aimed at understanding and preventing gambling harm; and maintaining a membership community that facilitates ongoing dialogue. The association also plays a role in informing regulatory practices and government policies by disseminating the latest research and facilitating discussions among stakeholders. With a history spanning over three decades, NAGS has become a central hub for gambling studies in Australia and the broader Asia-Pacific region, operating as a limited company limited by guarantee under Australian law.
Events Organized
Detailed Review
History and Purpose
The National Association for Gambling Studies (NAGS) was established to address the growing need for a dedicated forum where diverse stakeholders could engage in constructive dialogue about gambling research, policy, and harm minimisation. Unlike commercial gambling operators or treatment-only organisations, NAGS occupies a unique position as a neutral convenor that encourages critical examination of gambling from multiple perspectives—including public health, economic, social, and clinical. Its membership structure reflects this breadth, drawing individuals from universities, government departments (both state and federal), gambling treatment services, community advocacy groups, and the gambling industry’s responsible gambling programs.
Annual Conference
The association’s flagship event is its annual conference, held continuously for 33 years as of 2025. The 33rd Annual Conference marked a significant milestone, and the 2026 conference is scheduled for November 16-18 at Rydges World Square in Sydney. These conferences feature keynote presentations from leading international and Australian researchers, panel discussions on hot-button issues such as gambling advertising bans, online gambling regulation, and the effectiveness of harm minimisation tools, as well as workshops for practitioners. NAGS also offers scholarships to support the attendance of students and early-career researchers, helping to cultivate the next generation of gambling scholars.
Research and Grants
In terms of research promotion, NAGS plans to administer grants that directly fund investigations into gambling-related harm and its prevention. The association does not itself conduct primary research but acts as an enabler, facilitating connections between researchers and policymakers. Its website hosts a repository of conference proceedings and encourages the dissemination of findings through its network. Membership benefits include access to the annual conference at reduced rates, opportunities to present research, and inclusion in a mailing list that shares relevant news and calls for papers.
Governance and Membership
NAGS operates as a company limited by guarantee, with a board comprising elected officers including a President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and additional members. The association is registered in Australia and its headquarters are located in the state of Victoria (based on the registered address likely being in Melbourne, though not explicitly confirmed). The organisation’s governance structure ensures representation from key stakeholder groups. While NAGS does not have conventional corporate roles such as CEO or CTO, its leadership team is responsible for strategic direction, conference organisation, membership management, and financial oversight.
Market Position and Challenges
The association has maintained a stable presence in the Australian gambling studies landscape for over three decades. Its neutrality and academic credibility make it a trusted partner for government consultations, industry responsible gambling initiatives, and community advocacy efforts. NAGS has been referenced in multiple parliamentary inquiries and policy documents, underscoring its influence. The organisation’s challenges include maintaining funding and volunteer engagement, as well as navigating the often contentious debates between industry, government, and harm reduction advocates. However, its track record of facilitating respectful dialogue has been widely praised.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, NAGS is poised to continue its role as a vital intermediary as Australia grapples with evolving gambling issues such as the expansion of online betting, the impact of sports sponsorship, and the emergence of new technologies like cryptocurrency gambling and loot boxes. The association’s ability to adapt its conference themes and membership services to these emerging topics will be critical to its ongoing relevance. Its partnership with other international gambling study bodies may also expand, fostering cross-border research collaboration.
Key Products
Annual Conference
A multi-day event featuring research presentations, panel discussions, and networking opportunities. Held annually in November. The 33rd conference took place recently; 2026 conference scheduled for Sydney.
Research Grants & Scholarships
NAGS plans to provide grants for research projects on gambling harm prevention, and offers scholarships for emerging researchers to attend the conference.
Membership Program
A diverse membership community that includes researchers, government officials, clinicians, and venue staff. Benefits include reduced conference fees, networking, and access to information.
Online Forum / Community
The association serves as a platform for open and respectful dialogue on gambling issues, connecting stakeholders across Australia.