Minimise harm with GambleAware
Harm minimisation is the focus of a new advertising campaign to highlight the potential impacts of risky gambling behaviour on jobs, relationships and children.
Minister for Hospitality and Racing Kevin Anderson said the TV and radio campaign will also promote the NSW Government’s new GambleAware one-stop shop for information, education, support and treatment.
“We know that people at risk of gambling harm can face difficulties in their personal relationships and at work, with issues such as absences, lateness or lack of concentration,” Mr Anderson said.
“This campaign is designed to encourage people with, or at risk of gambling harm to seek help and check out the full range of information, support and treatment options available through GambleAware.”
Director of the Office of Responsible Gambling, Natalie Wright, said the NSW Office of Responsible Gambling’s Be Aware Be GambleAware campaign features lighthearted scenarios showing how some gambling behaviour can jeopardise relationships, jobs and children.
“The campaign also encourages parents to check their children’s video games for any elements that promote gambling,” Ms Wright said.
“We know that many people can gamble safely and don’t experience difficulties, however some people can develop serious harms that can have devastating impacts for them and their families.”
Nearly one in 10 gamblers in NSW are considered at risk of harm, and this cohort accounts for 70% of total gambling expenditure.
“We want people to know they don’t need to suffer in silence as there is a wide range of innovative support and treatment options available through GambleAware.”
GambleAware unites all NSW gambling support, education and treatment services under the one banner and is focused on supporting the entire community including people who may not face current challenges around gambling but may be at longer-term risk.
The campaign will run for three months with advertising on metropolitan and regional TV and radio, and materials for gambling support services.
More information can be found on the GambleAware website which has tools and resources to help people check in on their gambling, learn how to gamble safely, support their loved ones or exclude themselves from gambling altogether.