Preventing gambling harm

 

For Free, Confidential support call 03) 9575 5333.

Our Gambler’s Help Southern program has been supporting the local community since 1995.

This support includes a range of free and confidential services including:

  • Counselling (therapeutic and financial)
  • Venue support
  • Community engagement
  • School education
Our mission is to raise the awareness of gambling harm and support those affected in our community.

Help is closer than you think

If you would like to talk to someone about your gambling, or if you’re concerned about someone you care about, take the first step and get in touch with us.

About our service

Our therapeutic and financial counselling service is free and confidential to anyone experiencing gambling related harm – including family or friends.

Our staff are trained counsellors and psychologists who specialise in the treatment of gambling problems and we offer one-on-one, couple, family and group counselling.

Where can you find us?

You can find us at 13 locations across Bayside, South East Melbourne and the Peninsula, making help from Gambler’s Help Southern closer than you think.

How can a counsellor help?

We know that it can be hard to deal with gambling problems by yourself. Talking to someone independent can help. Our counsellors are there to support you as you talk about why you may be experiencing problems with gambling and work with you to make a change.

What is a financial counsellor and how can they help?

Dealing with financial issues as a result of gambling can be really tough. Our financial counsellors can work with you to help you get on top of your finances and talk to your creditors to sort out affordable repayments.

Who can use Gambler’s Help services?

Anyone who is experiencing (or has experienced) harm from gambling, either their own or someone else’s, can talk to us.

How soon can I get an appointment?

You can expect to make a face-to-face appointment with us within one week.

Bookings are available Monday to Friday between 9am - 5pm.  There is no limit on the number of sessions available.

Is there any cost?

No. Our services are completely free of charge.

Do I have to live or work locally to access the service?

No, we support people from all over Melbourne.

Do you have interpreters available?

Yes. We work with experienced interpreters.

How to get in touch:

About our work

You are not alone.  Every year, more than half a million Victorians experience some form of gambling harm.

At Gambler’s Help Southern our counsellors support more than 1200 people each year resolve their gambling issues.

We also provide input to the systems around gambling harm, including the justice system. Read about our input into The Courts' treatment of those living with gambling harm.  

Angela (left) shares her lived experiences of gambling harm  and  encourages others not to be embarrassed to seek help.

Listen to an interview by Lucy from Gambler's Help Southern with Angela from the family drug and gambling program, SHARC.

Angela shares her personal insights of the wide and shocking effects of gambling.

Angela encourages people to seek help for their gambling addiction, before it is too late.

"Don't wait to seek help.  Don't be ashamed or embarrassed. I wish we knew that sooner," she said.