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Facts about gambling in NSW Funding to prevent gambling harm Check out our research Awareness campaigns Downloadable GambleAware resources

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How gambling works

Gambling is designed so that you lose much more than you win. Understanding how it works helps you stay in control.

How gambling works

Gambling is designed so that you lose much more than you win. Understanding how it works helps you stay in control.

Types of gambling

Whether you’re worried about your gambling, or thinking about gambling for the first time, it’s important to have the right information. Understanding how gambling works and the odds can help you make informed decisions about how much to play, which games to choose, and what steps to take if you need to change or stop your gambling.

Poker machines

Explore how payouts are determined, the psychology behind machine design, and why players may play longer than intended.

Sports and race betting

Sports and race betting is among the riskiest forms of gambling. Learn why the odds are stacked against you and uncover common myths before placing your next bet.

Lotteries and scratchies

Learn how random draws work, what your odds really are, and how prize structures are designed.

Casinos

Learn about how games work and why the house usually wins.

Online gambling

Some online gambling platforms, such as wagering apps and lotteries, may be legal in Australia. However, poker and online casinos are always illegal. Learn why gambling on overseas, unregulated sites carries extra risks.

Gaming versus gambling

Some video games have features similar to gambling, with elements of skill and chance, which can make it difficult to tell the difference.

GambleAware acknowledges Aboriginal people as the traditional custodians of the land and we pay respects to Elders past, present and emerging. GambleAware is an inclusive support service.

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