Gambling Help

Gambling Help Service

The Gambling Help Service provides free and confidential help to pEOPLE experiencing harmful gambling behaviours and their families.

Free, confidential support for people experiencing gambling harm.

At Centacare North Queensland, we understand that gambling can affect more than just the person who gambles. It can impact relationships, mental health, finances, work, study, and family life.

When one person experiences gambling harm, it doesn’t happen in isolation, up to six people around them may also feel the impact.

Whether you are personally experiencing gambling-related harm or are worried about someone close to you, you don’t have to face it alone.

Signs of Harm from Gambling

You may be experiencing gambling harm if you notice:

• Spending more time or money gambling than you can afford
• Arguing with loved ones about gambling
• Feeling anxious, guilty, or depressed after gambling
• Struggling to pay bills or manage finances
• Hiding gambling behaviour from family and friends
• Using gambling as a way to cope with stress or escape problems

If any of this sounds familiar, support is available.

How We Can Help

Our Gambling Help Service offers free and confidential support for:

• Individuals experiencing gambling harm
• Partners, family members, and friends affected by someone else’s gambling

Our qualified counsellors and educators provide:

• Counselling and support for individuals, couples, families, and groups
• Sessions available face-to-face, by phone, or virtually
• Information and education sessions for community agencies, schools, and venue staff
• Self-exclusion assistance, helping individuals take practical steps to limit gambling access
• Community education and awareness to reduce stigma and promote early help-seeking

Areas We Support

Centacare NQ’s Gambling Help Service supports communities across:

• Townsville and surrounding areas
• Mount Isa and surrounding areas

Our team is available locally in Townsville and offer outreach to surrounding areas. We can also offer virtual and telephone sessions to suit your needs.

Fees

This program is funded by the Department of Communities, Housing and Digital Economy, and is completely free to access.

Contact Us

You do not need a referral to access this service.
Call Centacare NQ on 1300 672 273 between 8:30am – 5:00pm (weekdays)
or submit an enquiry via our Contact Form.

After Hours Support

If you need urgent assistance outside of business hours, contact the Gambling Help Line for 24/7 support:
1800 858 858
Visit www.gamblinghelpqld.org.au for more information and self-help resources.

You don’t have to be the one gambling to seek help.
Whether you’re a partner, parent, child, sibling, friend, or colleague, we’re here to support you.