The Australian Psychological Society (APS) and the NSW Office of Responsible Gambling (ORG) are continuing their collaborative efforts to reduce gambling harm through the promotion of evidence-based resources for psychologists.
Research commissioned by the ORG found that one in five people experienced harm from their own or another person’s gambling. Gambling harm is increasingly recognised as a significant public health issue, with wide-ranging impacts on individuals, families and communities. Impacts can include adverse effects on mental health and wellbeing, financial stress, relationship difficulties and broader social consequences.
The APS and ORG partnership is underpinned by a shared commitment to strengthening psychologists’ capacity to identify and respond to gambling-related issues in clinical practice.
APS President Dr Kelly Gough said psychologists have a vital role in recognising and responding to gambling harm within broader mental health care.
“Gambling harm can have profound impacts on psychological wellbeing, relationships and financial security.
“Psychologists are often supporting people experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties or financial stress where gambling harm may not initially be identified as the underlying issue,” Dr Gough said.
“Psychological science provides important insights into the behavioural, emotional and social factors that contribute to gambling harm. “This partnership supports psychologists with practical, evidence-based guidance to strengthen early identification, intervention and support for individuals and families affected by gambling harm.”
Alison Parkinson, Director of the NSW Office of Responsible Gambling, said the continued partnership reflects the importance of building workforce capability to address gambling harm.
“By supporting psychologists with accessible and evidence-informed resources, we can improve responses to gambling harm and make sure people get the support they need, when they need it.” Ms Parkinson said.
In 2024/25, the ORG funded the APS to develop and deliver a suite of evidence-based resources to support psychologists working with people affected by gambling harm. Key project outcomes included the development of the practice guide Psychological care for people experiencing gambling harm, an accompanying professional webinar, and a community information sheet designed to support public understanding and help-seeking.
Following strong engagement with and uptake of these resources, the ORG has provided additional funding to APS to support their continued promotion and broader dissemination.
The next phase of the project will focus on increasing awareness and use of the existing resources among psychologists, particularly those working with individuals experiencing gambling-related harm.
The APS resources are designed to support psychologists across a range of practice settings and experience levels, helping integrate gambling harm awareness and response into everyday clinical care.
