Welcome to GambleAware NSW.
We want to thank you for reaching out to get the support you need to make a positive change in your life and the life of a loved one.
We know how hard it is to talk about someone else’s gambling, but there is no shame in asking for help. That’s why GambleAware NSW is a free, confidential service where you can have an open conversation about what is worrying you and explore the best way to make things better for you and your loved one.To get the support you deserve, all you need to do is call 1800 858 858.
It is the number that can change your life.
When you call, we will arrange for you to speak to a professional GambleAware counsellor in your language.
An interpreter may be used to connect you to a counsellor who speaks your language, if required.
A few important things to know:
- The service is completely free.
- Your conversation is confidential. Everything you talk about will remain private.
- We are here to talk 24/7. You can call 1800 858 858 any time of the day or night.
- There is help in your language with counsellors who understand your culture.
- You can get support from GambleAware anywhere in NSW.
- Flexible appointments can be arranged for ongoing support.
Do you see the signs of harmful gambling?
Gambling does not just impact the person who is gambling, it impacts everyone around them. If you notice one or more of the signs below in your loved one, then their gambling may be causing harm and it could be time to talk to a counsellor about how it is affecting you.
Your safety is the most important thing.
If you feel threatened or unsafe, or if you are concerned about the welfare of any children affected by your loved one’s gambling, it’s important that you know that there is support available.
Call the Domestic Violence Line on 1800 65 64 63 or GambleAware NSW on 1800 858 858.
If you are in an emergency, please dial 000.
What is a counsellor and how can they help?
Counselling is talking medicine. If you had a broken arm you would see a doctor and not wait for it to get better on its own. When your loved one’s gambling is concerning you, talking about your issues with a GambleAware counsellor can help.
GambleAware counsellors know that it can be hard to talk about how someone’s gambling impacts your life, but there is no shame in asking for help. It’s a sign of strength. We all need support, and GambleAware counsellors are professionals who will listen and talk to you about issues in your life to support you to solve them.
They will assist in:
- Understanding your unique pressures and issues.
- Explore the best way to support you.
- Help develop strategies to talk to your loved one about your concerns.
- Link you with a financial counsellor and other support services.
How do I talk to a loved one about their gambling?
For some people, it can be difficult to talk about gambling. A GambleAware counsellor can help you prepare to talk with your loved one about your concerns and provide one-on-one support to you the entire way.
Encouraging your loved one to have a conversation with you can be the first step in their recovery.
To start, you can:
- Pick an appropriate time and place to talk that is private with no distractions.
- Be prepared with information about what help is available.
- Avoid sounding judgmental or critical.
- Ask their perspective on how they see their gambling.
- Ask open questions: “What’s been going on for you? Is there anything I can do to help?”
- Leave the GambleAware fact sheet in an open area of your home for them to read
- Try asking if they would feel comfortable talking to a GambleAware counsellor, rather than pressuring them to see one.
To speak to a counsellor in your language for more advice, call the number that can change your life - 1800 858 858.
We’re here to support you.
To speak to a counsellor in your language for more advice, call the number that can change your life – 1800 858 858.
Frequently asked questions
Does it cost money to see a counsellor?
Do I have to take time off work?
Will my community find out?
Is seeking help a sign of weakness?
Gambling or having problems with gambling is taboo in your culture. Will I be judged?
Will my loved one be involved in counselling?
Will speaking to a Gambling Help counsellor affect my visa?
I’m worried about my loved one’s reaction if I confront them about their gambling. What should I do?
GambleAware counsellors are here to assist you with the best strategies to talk to your loved one about their gambling.
However, your safety is the most important thing.
If you feel threatened or unsafe, or if you are concerned about the welfare of any children affected by your loved one’s gambling, it’s important that you know that there is support available.
Call the Domestic Violence Line on 1800 65 64 63 or GambleAware NSW on 1800 858 858.
If you are in an emergency, please dial 000.