Gambling counselling online in Australia: free 24/7 support

At a glance

You do not need a finished plan

People can make contact while losses, debts, relationship pressure or account disputes are still unresolved. A useful first sentence can simply describe what is happening now and what feels hardest to control.

Choose chat or phone

The official immediate-help page offers online chat with qualified gambling counsellors and the Gambling Helpline on 1800 858 858. It states that both are available 24/7 across Australia and are free, professional and confidential.

Prepare only what helps

• Whether the concern is your gambling or someone else's.
• The immediate money, safety or access problem.
• Any self-exclusion or payment barrier already in place.
• One practical goal for the next day.

Do not send passwords, full card numbers or unnecessary identity documents.

Support can sit beside other action

Counselling does not replace a bank report, regulator complaint, debt advice or emergency response. It can help someone slow down, decide what to protect and prepare for those separate steps without chasing a loss.

Family and friends can also seek help

The service describes support for people affected by another person's gambling as well as their own. A family member can ask about boundaries and protecting shared essentials even if the person gambling is not ready to make contact.

Know the emergency boundary

If there is immediate danger, violence or a risk that someone cannot stay safe, use emergency or crisis services rather than waiting for an online counselling response. The Gambling Help Online page also lists other emergency contacts.

Official evidence trail

Sources checked 6 August 2026. Later official records or programme terms may change this account.