Problem gambling affects roughly 1% of Australian adults, yet the ripple effects touch families, workplaces and communities far beyond that figure. For every person experiencing harm, an estimated six to ten others feel the consequences. Recognising a problem is the hardest step, but Australia has one of the most developed support networks in the world, and most of it is free, confidential and available around the clock. Check out additional details at MyEmpire app.
Free National Helplines and Online Support
The first point of contact for most people is the Gambling Help Online service, which operates a 24/7 counselling line, web chat and email support. Sessions are delivered by trained counsellors and cost nothing. Callers can remain anonymous, which removes a significant barrier for people worried about privacy or shame.
State-based helplines mirror this national coverage. New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland and the other states each fund their own gambling help lines, and calls are routed to local counsellors who understand the machines, venues and betting products common in that state.
Online tools also play a growing role. Self-assessment quizzes, budgeting calculators and self-exclusion registries let players take practical steps before or alongside formal counselling. These resources suit people who prefer to start privately rather than speaking to someone face to face.
Face-to-Face and Financial Counselling
For many, in-person sessions produce better outcomes. Community health centres, neighbourhood houses and specialist agencies across Australia offer one-on-one appointments, often with evening slots for people who work during the day.
Financial counselling is a distinct and valuable strand. Gambling debt is frequently tangled with credit cards, buy now pay later arrangements and personal loans, and a financial counsellor can negotiate payment plans, explain hardship provisions and help clients stabilise their money situation while they address the behaviour itself.
Family and relationship counselling is equally important. Partners and children often carry hidden stress, and services such as Relationships Australia run programs specifically for affected family members. Group sessions, where participants hear from others in similar situations, are free at most agencies and have strong retention rates.
Treatment Options and Self-Exclusion Schemes
Cognitive behavioural therapy remains the most evidence-based approach. Studies suggest that around 60% to 70% of people who complete a structured CBT program report significant reductions in gambling frequency and spending. Medicare rebates may apply when a GP prepares a mental health care plan.
Self-exclusion is another practical measure. Every Australian state operates a venue-based exclusion scheme, and the national BetStop register, launched in 2023, allows people to block themselves from all licensed online and telephone betting providers in one step. Terms range from three months to permanent.
Before choosing any paid service, it is worth noting that licensed counselling through helplines, community health services and Gambling Help agencies is fully funded, so cost should never stand in the way of seeking support.
- Gambling Help Online: 24/7 phone, chat and email counselling
- BetStop: national self-exclusion register for online wagering
- Financial counsellors: free debt and hardship advice
- Relationships Australia: support for partners and families