In the last decade, online gambling in Australia has seen a dramatic increase in popularity, more than doubling its reach. Alongside this growth, there has been a rise in problem gambling and addiction. If you or someone you care about is facing challenges with wagering or betting, there are many resources available from both government and private organisations to offer support.
National Gambling Addiction Resources
The Commonwealth provides a dedicated 24/7 hotline for those struggling with problem gambling. You can reach the National Gambling Helpline at 1800 858 858, anytime from any phone. This helpline serves as both an emergency contact for immediate help and a preventative resource, connecting you with further assistance if needed.
The Australian government has prioritised addressing problem interactive wagering and gambling addiction. In response, the Commonwealth is rolling out the National Consumer Protection Framework for Online Wagering (NCPF) in collaboration with state and territory governments.
Under the NCPF, a unified self-exclusion register will be introduced to prevent individuals from gambling at any in-person or online casino. Until this system is fully implemented, bettors must be proactive and self-exclude individually at each casino or online platform to prevent further gambling.
State and Territory Problem Gambling Help
In addition to national resources, each state and territory offers its own support systems for tackling gambling addiction. These include online support websites and dedicated hotline numbers.
For example, New South Wales (NSW) offers the GambleAware service, a robust initiative designed to provide free and fully confidential support. GambleAware operates in over 40 languages and continues to expand its services. It offers a range of support options including in-person counselling, phone consultations, and video conferencing to cater to various needs.
NSW is not alone in its efforts. Every state and territory has its own array of resources to assist those struggling with gambling addiction and those affected by problem gambling. These services can help with self-exclusion processes, offer strategies to combat gambling issues, and provide referrals for legal support.
Private Assistance for Gambling Troubles
While Commonwealth and state/territory governments offer their own programs, private organisations also play a crucial role in filling the gaps. For online gamblers grappling with addiction, the GamblingHelpOnline website is a valuable resource.
This site provides comprehensive directories of state-specific resources and offers clear strategies for preventing problem gambling. Users can access services immediately via the site’s live chat feature. Additionally, GamblingHelpOnline can arrange referrals to counselling, legal support, financial advice, and other relevant resources to address individual needs more effectively.
