Responsible Gambling

Punting has grown in Australia and across the world and you can bet on almost anything, anywhere and at anytime. It can be used for excitement when following racing or watching your favourite sporting events.

However, it is often abused as people begin to chase their losses, which can lead to a serious problem. At Before You Bet we support responsible gambling which can be broken down into two different aspects - the individual gambler and a problem for the wider community.

Responsible gambling for individuals incorporates betting for personal entertainment, but includes an awareness of the consequences and possibility of losing. These individuals are in control of their gambling, it isn’t a priority in their life and it doesn’t cause them problems or harm. When this changes, however, a gambling problem may arise.

Responsible gambling for the wider community refers to gambling providers, governments and industry associations. They are required to generate awareness of the risks and dangers that can evolve when taking part in gambling. It is their responsibility to create environments that minimise problem gambling and listen to the community’s concerns surrounding gambling.

If you find yourself in a situation where gambling is becoming a problem for you and it is affecting your every day life, there are many ways to seek professional help services.

Gambling Help Online

The best way to get professional help is to visit the Gambling Help Online website at www.gamblinghelponline.org.au. Here you will find links to articles, blogs, resources and support. Free and confidential support is available 24/7.

 

Gambling Help Hotline

If gambling has stopped being fun for you, it may help to find out more about gambling and problem gambling. Get a better understanding of how gambling works, find out why people gamble and learn the signs of problem gambling.

If you would like to speak to someone about your problem gambling then call the Gambling Help Hotline on 1800 858 858. The service is free and available 24/7.

 

BetStop

BetStop is a National Self-Exclusion Register that commenced on August 21st 2023.

Registering is quick and easy. All you need is a mobile phone number, email address and either an Australian driver’s licence or a Medicare card. The service is free, and your personal details will be protected.

If you self-exclude, you will be excluded from all of the approximately 150 licensed wagering providers in Australia. These wagering providers will be required to close all your betting accounts and must not let you place a bet, let you open a new account or send you marketing messages. You cannot select which providers to exclude from. Self-exclusion periods You can self-exclude for a minimum of 3 months and up to a lifetime.

If you or someone you know wishes to self-exclude from all licensed wagering operators call 1800 238 786 or visit https://betstop.gov.au for more information.

 

Awareness Campaigns

Through marketing campaigns, social media, online and print publications, events and other communication channels, the sports betting community seek to raise awareness about the risks of gambling, including those posed by new technologies.

Gambling Harm Awareness Week is designed to encourage people to talk about the harms associated with gambling and the effects they can have on communities, families, friends, workplaces and individuals. Gambling harm can affect self-esteem, relationships, physical and mental health, work performance and social life.

Effective April 1st 2023, Australian wagering companies also must display new, rotating taglines accompanying their advertising to alert the community to the risks of problem gambling.

 

 

Reset App

The Reset App is a new self-help mobile app developed by the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation. The interactive program was developed using research conducted by Deakin University and uses Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and motivational interviewing techniques to support people struggling with their gambling habits.

Reset can be downloaded through the app sotre of visit the website www.resetapp.com.au.

 

100 Day Challenge

The 100 Day Challenge is a program for people who want to change their relationship with gambling. Available in app and web-based formats, the 100 Day Challenge offers participants 100 alternative recreational activities over 100 days, supporting them to take a break from, or cut back on, their gambling.

If you want to take a break from gambling, please visit the website at www.100dc.com.au.