NSW Government Expands Support for GambleAware to Combat Problem Gambling

NSW Government Increases Funding to Enhance GambleAware Services

The Minns Labor Government in New South Wales has committed an additional AUD 1.3 million (approximately $930,000) to support GambleAware, a service dedicated to addressing problem gambling. This funding boost aims to strengthen assistance programs for individuals affected by gambling addiction and expand the reach of support networks.

Expansion of Support Services Across New South Wales

With this increased investment, GambleAware will broaden its operations, extending peer support services to 44% more locations within the state. Key recovery resources such as gambling counseling, financial advice, and peer support form the foundation for aiding individuals on their path to recovery.

The number of service locations will grow from 34 to 49, and the team of peer support workers will increase from 11 to 16. David Harris, the Minister for Gaming and Racing, highlighted the government’s commitment to tackling gambling-related harm, emphasizing the profound impact it has not only on those directly involved but also on their families.

Impact and Reach of GambleAware Programs

GambleAware’s efforts have already supported over 4,170 people and facilitated more than 19,000 counseling sessions. The GambleAware Helpline has provided crisis support via phone to approximately 9,500 individuals, indicating the service’s importance and effectiveness in the community.

Minister Harris pointed out that GambleAware offers confidential, accessible help tailored to individuals’ preferences, ensuring support is available anytime.

Government Funding and Support for Responsible Gambling

For the financial year 2025–26, the Minns Government has allocated AUD 20.7 million ($14.79 million) to the Responsible Gambling Fund, an increase from the previous year’s AUD 19.2 million ($13.72 million). Several key service providers have had their contracts extended by three years with an option for a two-year extension. These organizations include Wesley Community Services, Regional Community Care, Armidale CentaCare New England North West, Mission Australia, Uniting, and St Vincent’s Hospital Sydney.

Proactive Measures to Make Gambling Safer in NSW

The government has implemented evidence-based strategies to reduce gambling harm. Among these measures is a cut of over 3,000 gaming machine entitlements and a new cash input limit of $500 for new gaming machines, down significantly from $5,000. Now, 56% of all gaming machines in NSW operate under this $500 limit.

Additionally, Responsible Gambling Officers are mandated in venues with more than 20 gaming machines. These establishments are required to maintain gambling incident registers and gaming management plans to continuously monitor and respond to gambling-related risks.

Legislative Efforts to Minimize Gambling Risks

The government has also prohibited political donations from clubs that operate gaming machines and restricted ATM access within gaming areas in clubs and hotels to discourage impulsive gambling. Recently, NSW announced it will end late-night exemptions for poker machines, further reinforcing its dedication to responsible gambling practices.