Can I have someone banned?
In NSW, you can apply to have a loved one with a gambling problem banned from the casino, but not from pubs and clubs. What else can you do?
It can be challenging to control someone else’s gambling, and third-party exclusion is not yet possible in all venues in NSW. For pubs and clubs, for example, gamblers must decide for themselves if they want to self-exclude, although you can arrange third-party exclusion in the casino. This situation may change – we’ll keep you posted.
Here are the current alternatives.
Request third-party exclusion from The Star
Are you worried about how much a friend or relative gambles at the casino? You may be able to have them banned. However, this is an extreme step. Please talk to a GambleAware counsellor first on 1800 858 858.
If you choose to go ahead, call The Star Sydney on 02 9777 9000 and ask for Responsible Gambling Customer Liaison and request third-party exclusion from the casino’s gambling facilities. They’ll explain to you how it works.
Suggest self-exclusion from pubs, clubs and the casino
If your loved one is ready for it, you could suggest that they self-exclude. This allows them to take control by deciding to block, ban or bar themselves from places where they know gambling is an issue for them. It can help if they want to cut down, have a break or quit for good.
Investigate blocking software
Specialist blocking software can prevent access to all online gambling sites, servers and apps in one go. It’s a great way to help stop kids and young people from experimenting with gambling online.
See if your bank can help
Many banks support customers who want to manage their gambling. Just ask – your bank might let you place restrictions on spending or blocks on using credit cards. They may even provide hardship assistance. Contact your bank’s Customer Support or Customer Care team. They’ll talk you through your options, and let you know how they can help.
Whatever you do, be prepared
It may be hard to step in to stop someone with a problem from gambling and talk to them about it without blame or anger. The last thing you want is to escalate the situation. Before you do anything, talk to a professional counsellor who’s trained to give you confidential advice, support and strategies.
I’d prefer an Aboriginal service
As an Aboriginal person, you can get support anywhere in urban or regional NSW through Warruwi Gambling Help.
I need support in my own language
Support is available in over 40 community languages, including 中文 (Mandarin and Cantonese), Tiếng Việt (Vietnamese), عربى(Arabic) and Italiano (Italian).
