Key Moments:
- GambleAware Week runs from 20 October to 26 October, highlighting both harm prevention and free support options
- The NSW Government plans to allocate $20.7 million for gambling support services in 2025-26, an increase from $19.19 million the previous year
- The Reclaim the Game initiative has renewed its partnerships with the Sydney Kings, Sydney Flames, and Illawarra Hawks for another two seasons
Community-Focused Awareness Campaigns
The New South Wales (NSW) Government is calling on individuals and organizations across the region to amplify the message of GambleAware Week: gambling impacts not only finances, but also health, relationships, and overall well-being.
Taking place from 20 October to 26 October, the current campaign aims to raise awareness about the range of free and confidential support services available to anyone experiencing gambling-related harm.
Initiatives to Reduce Advertising and Gambling Harm
In tandem with its awareness efforts, the government continues to advance its Reclaim the Game initiative. This program, developed in collaboration with 19 sporting clubs from six leagues – including the A-League, AFL, Cricket, National Basketball League, Netball, and National Rugby League – targets a reduction in sports betting advertisements.
The initiative recently secured renewed two-season commitments from the Sydney Kings and Illawarra Hawks men’s basketball teams, as well as the Sydney Flames women’s basketball team.
NSW GambleAware Week highlights the risks associated with gambling and reminds us that there’s more to lose than money. Gambling can harm all aspects of your life, including your relationships with friends and family. pic.twitter.com/c3t4n6MKda
— Mission Australia (@MissionAust) October 19, 2025
Insights Into Gambling Behavior and Harm
Sports betting is predominantly observed among 18-24 year-olds. According to the 2024 NSW Gambling Survey, sports and race betting contributes to 16.5% of gambling harm identified in the state.
Reclaim the Game seeks to break through pervasive sports betting marketing, promoting knowledgeable decision-making about gambling, and encouraging affected individuals to seek help.
Government Funding and Policy Measures
Looking ahead to 2025-26, the NSW Government has earmarked $20.7 million from the Responsible Gambling Fund for support services, reflecting an increase from $19.19 million during the previous year.
Other harm minimization measures implemented include a $100 million investment in research, treatment, and reform initiatives; bans on gambling advertisements across public transport and terminals; removal of external gambling signage from licensed venues; mandated Responsible Gambling Officers for venues with over 20 gaming machine entitlements; and prohibition of political donations from clubs operating electronic gaming machines.
| Year | Gambling Support Funding (AUD) |
|---|---|
| 2024-25 | $19.19 million |
| 2025-26 | $20.7 million |
Ongoing Engagement and Partnerships
The NSW Office of Responsible Gambling, the driving force behind Reclaim the Game and the GambleAware statewide support service, continues to build partnerships to reinforce these messages in the sporting community.
Further details about GambleAware Week, Reclaim the Game, and related resources are accessible at www.gambleaware.nsw.gov.au. Free, confidential support is available 24/7 through the GambleAware Helpline at 1800 858 858, with language assistance for multicultural communities.
Leadership Commentary
Minister for Gaming and Racing David Harris said:
“The NSW Government is committed to reducing gambling harm which not only impacts individuals, but also their loved ones and the broader community.
“I’m pleased to announce the NSW Government has extended the Reclaim the Game partnerships with the Sydney Kings, Sydney Flames and Illawarra Hawks. These partnerships have helped us spread this important message through reclaiming advertising space and enlisting clubs to engage with fans and the community on responsible gambling.
“Everyone has a role to play in keeping our communities safe, informed and supported. With gambling, there’s more to lose than money. You could be risking your family home, that dream holiday, your health or your relationships.
“This GambleAware Week, start a conversation with those who matter most about what gambling’s really costing. If you or someone you care about is struggling, support is available.”
Sydney Kings and Flames Chief Commercial Officer Amanda Farag said: “The Sydney Kings and Flames have been proud long-term partners of Reclaim the Game, and we are excited to renew this partnership. We wish basketball to remain a family-friendly environment, and we support the message of responsible gambling. We are proud of our ongoing commitment to this message”
Illawarra Hawks General Manager Commercial Aaron Anderson said: “The Illawarra Hawks are proud to continue our partnership with Reclaim the Game and stand alongside the Sydney Kings and Sydney Flames, in creating a safer, more positive sporting environment.
“By extending our partnership, we’re sending a clear message, basketball is about community, competition, and passion — not gambling. This initiative empowers fans to enjoy the game for what it truly is, while raising awareness about the support available through GambleAware.”
- Author
Daniel Williams
