Community Support for Gambling Harm Prevention and Assistance
Community support plays a vital role in addressing the social impact of gambling by providing services, funding, and initiatives that help individuals, families, and communities affected by gambling harm. Across Australia and New Zealand, governmental and non‑profit organisations collaborate to deliver education, counselling, awareness campaigns, and harm minimisation resources.
In Australia, various state and territory programs deliver gambling harm support services that range from counselling and early intervention to community education and awareness projects. Organisations such as GambleAware provide resources, helplines, and peer support options for people experiencing gambling problems and their loved ones.
Community grants and funds — such as Tasmania’s Community Support Fund — distribute levies collected from gambling activity to support local projects, research, education, and community partnerships that aim to prevent and reduce gambling harm.
Local community sectors and groups also engage in public health responses, training, and resource sharing to support clients and raise awareness of responsible gambling behaviours. These efforts include printed materials, workshops, and outreach tailored to diverse communities across jurisdictions.
National and regional initiatives increasingly focus on tailored support for specific populations, including culturally appropriate services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and outreach programs that involve community engagement and education.
Online Casinos — Social and Community Considerations
While online pokies gaming offers entertainment and convenience to players worldwide, it also presents community support challenges similar to those seen with land‑based gambling. Online gambling can increase accessibility and frequency of wagering, which may lead to financial stress and risk of harm for some individuals. As a result, community support frameworks include resources specifically and indirectly related to online gaming behaviour, such as counselling, self‑exclusion tools, and education on recognising signs of problem gambling.
Support services often provide tailored information and assistance for people affected by online gambling harm, including telephone and online counselling, financial advice, and referral to specialised support groups. These services aim to minimise the negative social impacts of gambling — whether land‑based or online — and foster healthier communities through prevention, early intervention, and sustained support.