New Language Guide Released for Gambling Harm Action Week

How might your language shape someone’s experience of gambling harm?

To mark Gambling Harm Action Week (20–26 October), the ACT Gambling and Racing Commission has released a new Guide for Talking About Gambling and Related Harms.

This year’s theme, Let’s change the conversation, encourages us to reflect on how language shapes public understanding of gambling harm. The guide promotes a balanced narrative—recognising that gambling is a risky activity that can harm anyone, and that responsibility for reducing harm is shared across individuals, communities, industry and government.

It also provides guidance on recognising the scope and scale of harms—from financial stress and relationship breakdowns to broader impacts on families and communities.

In the ACT, 1 in 6 people are affected by gambling harm—either their own or someone else’s. The guide offers practical tips for using person-first language, avoiding stereotypes, and including support options in communications.

Whether you’re a community member, service provider or communicator, this guide can help you start better conversations and reduce stigma. Read the guide and learn more at: www.act.gov.au/community/gambling-harm/talking-about-gambling-harm

Let’s change the conversation—because open, thoughtful dialogue is better than silence.