"Helping general practitioners recognise and manage gambling-related issues"
14 Oct 2025
GPs Play Key Role in Identifying and Supporting Patients Affected by Gambling Harm
Gambling is common in Australia, but it can have serious effects on health and wellbeing. The New South Wales Gambling Survey 2024 found that one in five adults (21%) experienced harm from gambling – either from their own gambling, someone else’s, or lasting impacts.
Gambling-related harm can include financial stress, relationship problems, mental health issues, and poor physical health. Certain groups are more affected, including regular gamblers, people who play pokies, young men aged 18–24, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
For GPs, this highlights the importance of screening for gambling harm as part of routine care. Patients may show signs such as anxiety, depression, sleep problems, family conflict, or financial difficulties, often without mentioning gambling as the cause. A supportive, non-judgemental approach can help GPs start conversations and connect patients with help.
Free Support for Patients
GPs do not need to be gambling specialists to support patients. Gambling Help Online offers free, confidential support for anyone affected by gambling, including family and carers. Services include counselling, financial advice, peer support from people with lived experience, and culturally safe support for Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, and culturally diverse communities. Patients can access help by calling 1800 858 858 or visiting Gambling Help Online.
Building GP Skills and Confidence
The NSW Office of Responsible Gambling has partnered with the RACGP to provide training and resources for GPs. This includes podcasts, webinars, and other materials to support early identification and intervention, particularly for young people and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
Training helps GPs integrate gambling harm into routine care, conduct sensitive conversations, reduce stigma, and identify links between gambling and other health issues such as mental illness or substance use.
GambleAware Week 2025
GambleAware Week runs from Monday 20 October to Sunday 26 October. The campaign encourages open discussion about gambling, challenges myths, and promotes help-seeking. GPs can use this opportunity to screen patients, share resources, or raise awareness in their practices.
Key Points for GPs
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Gambling harm is a public health issue affecting people across all demographics.
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One in five adults in NSW has experienced gambling-related harm.
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GPs are well placed to identify early warning signs and provide support.
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Gambling Help Online is free, confidential, and accessible.
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Training and resources are available to increase GP confidence in discussing gambling.
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GambleAware Week 2025 is a timely opportunity to promote awareness and encourage help-seeking.
By including gambling harm in routine care, GPs can make a meaningful difference to the lives of patients and their communities.
Source: NSW Office of Responsible Gambling, newsGP
