Frequently Asked Questions

1) What is problem gambling?
2) What does RIGT do about problem gambling?
3) Is RIGT against gambling?
4) Is the gambling industry acting responsibly if people become addicted to gambling?
5) What is the Government doing about problem gambling?
6) What is the responsibility of the gambling industry?

1)  What is problem gambling?

Problem gambling is characterised by difficulties in limiting the money and/or time spent on gambling which leads to adverse consequences for the gambler, others, or for the community. (As defined by the Australian Ministerial Council on Gambling, 2005)

2) What does RIGT do about problem gambling?

RIGT is not a direct provider of services. We fund treatment, education and research
programmes to address problem gambling. The education work we fund is focused on preventing problem gambling and reducing the exposure of those at risk.

3) Is RIGT against gambling?

No, we are neither for nor against gambling, and recognise that it has become a mainstream leisure activity. Our concern lies with problem gambling, and we do our best to prevent and alleviate the problems that arise from excessive gambling.

4) Is the gambling industry acting responsibly if people become addicted to gambling?

We do not assess the extent of responsibility taken by gambling companies. We encourage all companies to fund our work in order to prevent problem gambling in the first place and treat it where this has not been possible. Our research work leads to a better understanding of effective prevention and treatment methods.

5) What is the Government doing about problem gambling?

The government does not spend money directly on the education or treatment work concerned with problem gambling. This is because the responsibility rests with the gambling industry to fund our work directly.

6) What is the responsibility of the gambling industry towards problem gamblers?

Any organisation that provides gambling opportunities has a responsibility to develop policies and programmes to address problem gambling issues.

Another way for gambling companies to demonstrate their social responsibility is by contributing to our work. We use our funds to support our education, research and treatment programmes.  The Gambling Commission regards a donation to RIGT as one way in which companies can demonstrate their compliance with the Licence Conditions on social responsibility. Click here to see those that currently donate.