Worried about someone who is gambling

Helping someone who is not ready to change their behaviour may be difficult and the decision for them to get help is ultimately theirs. Sometimes we may get so concerned for someone else that we may not look after ourselves. It is important that you keep yourself safe.

It may be helpful for you to talk to someone you trust about what is going on and how you feel. This may be a family member, teacher, school counsellor or youth worker.

Some things that may be helpful if you are worried about someone's gambling

Talk with them

If you are worried about someone's gambling talking to them may be helpful. You may like to start by telling them what you have seen and how you feel.

Try to avoid being judgmental

If possible, try not to be judgmental as it may help them to listen to what you are saying. It is also a good idea to remember that people who need help to manage their gambling may feel ashamed and not want to talk about it. By letting them know you have an open mind they may be more likely to open up.

Knowing how to help

It may be helpful to suggest they talk to someone like a counsellor about how they can manage their gambling. A counsellor should be able to help them work out a plan for managing their gambling. Check out the Who can help you section for more information about what they do. You may like to offer to go with them to a counsellor for support.

More information

You may want to check out the other info, stories and links on the left hand side of the page.

Useful numbers

Gambling Help Line 1800 858 858

Gambling Help runs a phone service that is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It is staffed by people who really understand how difficult it can be to try to get your gambling under control. They're not there to judge you or tell you that what you're doing is wrong. They're there to listen and, when you're ready, they're there to provide helpful, practical tips and information.

There are more than 40 free face to face counselling services available throughout NSW.

For details of the nearest service to you, call Gambling Help on 1800 858 858 or visit www.gamblinghelp.nsw.gov.au.

G-Line (NSW) - For confidential gambling help. A 24 hour telephone service. Ph. 1800-633-635.

The Multicultural Problem Gambling Service (NSW) that can be contacted on 1800 856 800.

Arab Council Australia - 02 9709 4333
Auburn Asian Welfare Centre (services the Chinese speaking community) - Phone 02 9646 3695
Vietnamese Community in Australia - 02 9727 5599
Greek Welfare Centre - 02 9516 2188

TTY 1800-633-649

Northern Rivers Gambling Service (NSW only) - designed to help those who may have a gambling problem, and those who are affected by someone with a gambling problem 02 6687 2520.

Gamblers Anonymous:

NSW - 02 9564 1574

VIC - 03 9696 6108

QLD - 1800 002 210

SA - 08 8212 6933

WA - 08 9487 0688

TAS - 03 6224 2786