GambleAware services prove effective to minimise harm
People experiencing gambling harm or those affected by it are being reminded during GambleAware Week that free and effective support services are available.
An annual NSW Government initiative, GambleAware Week will run from Monday 20 October to Sunday 26 October with various activities to be held across the state to raise awareness about the risks of gambling.
This year’s theme is ‘There’s more to lose than money’, which highlights when people gamble, it’s not just money at stake – gambling can also affect their health, relationships and wellbeing.
The GambleAware Helpline and Gambling Help Online offers people impacted by gambling harm free and confidential support 24/7 and free face-to-face counselling is available in suburban and regional areas across NSW.
Office of Responsible Gambling Director Alison Parkinson said GambleAware services played a vital role in supporting people who experience gambling harm, as well as their families and partners.
“We recently carried out an independent evaluation of GambleAware services, and it confirmed GambleAware services are delivering high-quality, safe and effective support,” Ms Parkinson said.
“From one-on-one counselling and peer support, to financial counselling and community education, these services are making a real difference for individuals, families and communities across NSW.
“GambleAware Week is an opportunity to raise awareness of the risks of gambling and connect more people to support.
“With the recent football grand finals, spring racing carnivals and summer sport now underway, there may be more people at risk, so it’s important they understand what’s at stake and how to get support if they need it.”
In 2024-25, GambleAware services supported 4170 people in 19,422 counselling sessions and the GambleAware Helpline provided 9,538 people with telephone crisis support.
In 2025-26, the NSW Government committed $20.7 million from the Responsible Gambling Fund for gambling support services, up from $19.19 million the previous year.
“This funding ensures people across NSW can continue to access free and confidential support in the way that works best for them, whether it’s face-to-face in their local community, over the phone or online,” Ms Parkinson said.
“Services are available to everyone, with culturally safe and appropriate support tailored for diverse communities, including those from non-English speaking backgrounds and Aboriginal people.”
Information about GambleAware Week activities, plus resources and support information are available at www.gambleaware.nsw.gov.au
Call the 24-hour GambleAware Helpline on 1800 858 858 for free and confidential support. Inlanguage support is also available for those from diverse cultural backgrounds.