Help for gambling problems in Australia
Gambling can be fun - but at a certain point it can turn into a problem. Addiction to games destroys finances, relationships and mental health. The good news is you're not alone and there are effective ways to get help in Australia.
How do you understand that gambling has become a problem?
Here are some worrying signs:
If at least one of the points is familiar to you, you should seek support.
Where to go for help in Australia?
Free and anonymous services:
Self-help and recovery
Even if you're not ready for professional help, there are steps you can take:
Self-exclusion and access blocking
Opportunities:
Law and protection in Australia
The ACMA (Australian Communications and Media Authority) is a government regulator that blocks illegal sites. You can complain about a casino that violates the rights of players.
Each state also has its own aid centers:
There is always a way out
Acknowledging the problem is the first step towards freedom. Even if you do not feel the strength, specialists will help you go through the path to recovery. Feel free to seek help - it's not weakness, it's strength.
Useful links:
Remember: everyone deserves a second chance. Don't let the thrill run your life. Help is nearby.
How do you understand that gambling has become a problem?
Here are some worrying signs:
- You play longer and more often than you planned
- Ever-increasing amounts lost
- Desire to recoup
- Hiding activity from loved ones
- Financial debts due to the game
- Feeling guilty or anxious after sessions
- Inability to stop, even with negative consequences
If at least one of the points is familiar to you, you should seek support.
Where to go for help in Australia?
Free and anonymous services:
| Organization | Contacts | Services |
|---|---|---|
| Gambling Help Online | gamblinghelponline.org.au (https://www.gamblinghelponline.org.au) | Online chats, articles, diaries |
| Lifeline Australia | 13 11 14 | 24/7 Crisis Support |
| Gamblers Anonymous | gaaustralia.org.au (https://gaaustralia.org.au) | Recovery Teams |
| Beyond Blue | 1300 22 4636 | Mental Health Support |
| Relationships Australia | relationships.org.au (https://relationships.org.au) | Counselling and Family Assistance |
Self-help and recovery
Even if you're not ready for professional help, there are steps you can take:
- Restrict access to casinos (via self-lock, site blockers)
- Set limits on deposits
- Start a game log - record how much you play and spend
- Ask loved ones for support
- Develop alternative hobbies - sports, creativity, communication
Self-exclusion and access blocking
Opportunities:
- Self-exclusion through online casinos (usually 1 month to life)
- Use of blocking programs: Gamban, BetBlocker, Net Nanny
- Contacting Australian authorities to put themselves on lockdown registers
Law and protection in Australia
The ACMA (Australian Communications and Media Authority) is a government regulator that blocks illegal sites. You can complain about a casino that violates the rights of players.
Each state also has its own aid centers:
- NSW: Gambling Help NSW
- VIC: Gambler’s Help Victoria
- QLD: Gambling Help Queensland
- et al.
There is always a way out
Acknowledging the problem is the first step towards freedom. Even if you do not feel the strength, specialists will help you go through the path to recovery. Feel free to seek help - it's not weakness, it's strength.
Useful links:
- Gambling Help Online(https://www.gamblinghelponline.org.au)
- Lifeline Australia(https://www.lifeline.org.au)
- Gamblers Anonymous Australia(https://gaaustralia.org.au)
- BetBlocker(https://betblocker.org)
Remember: everyone deserves a second chance. Don't let the thrill run your life. Help is nearby.