Gambling rates in South Western Sydney are very high, particularly in Fairfield and Canterbury-Bankstown.
Problem gambling can cause financial hardship and can negatively impact relationships, work, physical and mental health. Gambling can also be a problem for young people through online gaming.
Problem gambling negatively impacts the individual and their family, and support is available for both.
GPs can support people experiencing gambling harm through screening and referring to appropriate support services.
SWSPHN has an online Gambling Harm Screening Tool: SWSPHN’s Gambling Harm Screening Tool
GambleAware has a plethora of online resources which can help GPs identify signs of gambling harm and support people who might be experiencing gambling harm.
This article appeared in Practice Pulse on Wednesday, 26 November 2025. If you are a GP, practice nurse or practice manager in South Western Sydney and do not get the weekly Practice Pulse email, speak to your Practice Support Officer.
