In a world first, the NSW Office of Responsible Gambling has developed two mobile apps to encourage people to gamble responsibly and call for support for problem gambling.
Announced by Minister for Hospitality and Racing, Kevin Anderson, the GamblingLess: In-the-Moment app is designed to help people who want to quit or gamble less by acting as a counsellor in their pocket, while the Gambling Habit Hacker app is targeted towards people who want to reduce the time and money they spend gambling.
“Problem gambling is a serious issue and the urge to gamble can take hold at any time of the day or night,” Mr Anderson said.
“The NSW Government has spent more than $400,000 developing the apps that will act as a circuit breaker to give people real-time support 24/7,” he said.
“It will also make it easier to access support services.
Mr Anderson said the GamblingLess: In-the-Moment app was developed in partnership with Deakin University and the Gambling Habit Hacker app was developed in partnership with the University of Auckland.
Development lead on the app at Deakin University, Nicki Dowling said the GamblingLess: In-the-Moment online platform was designed by experienced gambling clinicians.
“The app provides interactive activities which are tailored to each person’s individual needs by helping them curb urges and tackle triggers,” Professor Dowling said.
Senior Lecturer and app development lead at the University of Aukland, Simone Rodda said that while an app would never be a substitute for a human professional, “these online platforms are designed to help people manage their gambling behaviours in the moment. Accessibility is key where gambling triggers are concerned.”
Further information on the apps can be accessed at this PS News link.
If you or someone you know is affected by gambling, call GambleAware on 1800 858 858 for free, confidential support.
