Almost one-in-three NSW teens have illegally gambled in the past year, most in the company of their parents or relatives, research shows.
Conducted by the NSW government's Office of Responsible Gambling, the study found 29.8 per cent of NSW teens had gambled in the past year.
Most on average started the habit at the age of 11.
Of the more than 2200 children between the ages of 12 and 17 who responded to the survey, researchers determined 3.7 per cent were problem or at-risk gamblers.
"Underage gambling is illegal but significantly 21 per cent of participants reported partaking in gambling including lotteries, scratchies, keno, and sports and race betting," Office of Responsible Gambling director Natalie Wright said.
"The study found parents were the strongest influence on youth gambling, so we need to educate adults as well as young people."
Gambling usually occurred with a parent or guardian, 53.7 per cent reported, and more than half were present when adults in their household gambled
About 20 per cent said they gambled in the company of their grandparents, and 20 per cent with other relatives over the age of 18.
Only about nine per cent gambled alone.
Young people were more likely to be a problem or at-risk gambler if adults in their household gambled with them, did not regulate their online use, or had gambling problems themselves.
Nevertheless, more than three quarters reported that their parents would disapprove of them gambling.
The survey also found many kids - two fifths - were participating in simulated gambling, often while playing video games such as Grand Theft Auto.
