Learn More About Gambling Harm

What is gambling?

Gambling is betting or staking money where the outcome is uncertain. It's based either entirely on chance, or a combination of skill and chance. Examples include: electronic gaming machines, betting on sports, betting on horse races, playing the lotto, table games at a casino, bingo, video games with loot boxes, or any other game where you bet money.

warning SIGNS of gambling harm

  • Spending more time or money than intended.

  • Arguing with family and friends after gambling.

  • Losing and having an urge to return as soon as possible to win back losses.

  • Feeling guilty or remorseful about gambling.

  • Borrowing money or selling assets to gamble.

  • Considering obtaining money illegally to gamble.

  • Missing work to gamble.

  • Hiding the extent of the gambling.

safer GAMBLING TIPS

  • Don't let the game control you

  • Think of gambling as entertainment, not a way to make money

  • Don't gamble to escape stress or boredom

  • Set yourself a limit and don't exceed it

  • Don't chase your losses. Walk away

  • Gamble only what you can afford to lose

  • Never borrow money to gamble

  • Stay in control and think of the people who need you

HELP IS AVAILABLE

Gambling Help services provide free, confidential counselling, support, and information to gamblers and their partners, family and friends.

COUNSELLING SERVICES

Telephone and online support is available 24 hours, 7 days a week.
Face-to-face counselling is offered via Gambling Help services during business hours.

CONSIDER banning YOURSELF FROM GAMBLING

If you feel you're getting in over your head, speak to a venue's customer liaison officer about banning (excluding) yourself from gambling. Gambling Help services can also help you exclude from gambling venues.

For information about excluding yourself from sports betting providers, please contact the providers directly.

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It's OK to ask for help
1800 858 858
FREE AND CONFIDENTIAL 24/7

 

For access to an interpreter in your own language, call 131 450 and ask to be connected to the Interpreter Gambling Helpline.

Contact us

If gambling is impacting your life or a loved one's life, it's okay to reach out for help. It’s free and confidential.

Call the 24/7 Gambling Helpline on 1800 858 858

Face-to-face counselling locations

Online counselling and real time chat