Free help resources for gambling problems in Australia

Introduction

Australia has an extensive network of free services for people facing problematic gambling. Below is a detailed overview of each resource type, access methods and contact information.

1. Hotlines and phone support

1. Gambler's Help (full-time services)

Room: 1800 858 858 (free, 24 hours).

Services: psychological counseling, financial counseling, assistance to loved ones.

How to contact: By phone or through your state's service website (e.g. VRGF in Victoria, OLGR in Queensland).

2. Lifeline

Number: 13 11 14 (24/7).

Services: crisis psychological support, referral to specialized organizations.

3. MensLine Australia

Number: 1300 78 99 78 (24/7).

Services: support for men experiencing stress and addiction, family counseling.

2. Online chats and web support

1. GambleAware Australia

Service: online chat on gambleaware. org. au.

Opening hours: 24/7.

Functions: anonymous consultations, information materials, links to local groups.

2. eheadspace

Service: chat and video consultations for young people (under 25 years old).

How to find it: eheadspace. org. au, registration via email or mobile application.

3. QLife

Chat number: qlife. org. au/chat (online chat, up to 3 hours of support).

Audience: LGBTQ + people, but help is available to everyone.

3. Self-help groups

1. Gamblers Anonymous (GA)

Format: 12-step anonymous appointments.

Where to find it: schedule on the website gaaustralia. org. au, over 200 groups statewide.

Online meetings: available through Zoom channels, links are published on regional pages.

2. Gambler’s Help Peer Support

Service: free group sessions led by VRGF specialists.

How to connect: Via your state's Gambler's Help website or hotline.

4. Information portals and online resources

1. Gambler's Help (states)

Content: articles, tests (PGSI), checklists, videos on self-control strategies.

Examples:

foundation. vic. gov. au (Victoria)
responsiblegambling. qld. gov. au (Queensland)

2. BeGambleAware Learning

Service: free online courses on responsible play (modules, tests, certificate).

Access: through the BeGambleAware website.

3. Financial Counselling Australia

Сайт: financialcounsellingaustralia. org. au

Services: free advice on debt management, preparation of a budget plan.

5. Mobile apps

1. Gamban

Handle blocking gambling sites and applications.

Cost: Free for Australian residents (download via Gambler's Help).

2. BetBlocker

Description of blocking by category (Gambling, Social Media, etc.), cross-platform.

Access: free, open source.

3. Smiling Mind

A descriptive application for meditation and mindfulnes practices, reduces anxiety and impulsivity.

Access: Free on App Store and Google Play.

6. How to choose the right resource

1. According to the intensity of needs:

Urgent support - hotlines (1800 858 858, 13 11 14).
Long-term support - GA groups and BeGambleAware courses.

2. By format:

Phone - if Internet access is difficult.
Online chat - for anonymity and quick response.
Meetings live - for social support and exchange of experience.

3. By specialization:

Men - MensLine.
Youth - eheadspace.
Financial Affairs - Financial Counseling Australia.

Conclusion

Australian free resources cover all aspects of support for problem gambling: emergency help, group sessions, psychological support, financial advice and technical self-management tools. Choose several suitable services and combine them - this will increase the chances of successful recovery and preservation of health, both psychological and financial.