BetSafe: Your Club's commitment to responsible gambling

The BetSafe group, of which this Club is a proud member, is committed to establishing an environment in the Club where gambling is conducted responsibly and in a way that minimises the harm that may result. To achieve this, the BetSafe group has retained Paul Symond Consultancy (PSC) which has an expertise in responsible gambling, as well as problem gambling counselling and treatment. The BetSafe group has implemented measures and strategies that constitute a comprehensive program promoted under the BetSafe logo. Collectively, the BetSafe group has spent over $3million since 1998 developing and implementing this Responsible Conduct of Gambling (RCG) initiative. The program was the first of its kind in Australia, as well as internationally, and constitutes a model unparalleled by any gambling organisation in the world. The BetSafe program has become the international benchmark for patron care within the gambling industry.

Clubs, as we know, operate for the benefit of their members, as well as serving the needs of their local community in various ways. The impact of clubs in NSW is broad ranging and positive, particularly among those who are least privileged. Clubs are the major provider of social, recreational, sporting and other facilities in NSW and the focal point of many communities. Clubs are also a source of funding for a variety of community organisations and projects which would not otherwise be provided. The club industry is also a significant sector in the economy in terms of employment and tourism, as well as generating essential government revenue.

What does the BetSafe Program do for your Club?

The BetSafe program is a proactive approach looking after the interests of club members, guests, staff, management and the Board of Directors. It is not an intrusive program, but rather provides a 'safety net' for those members and staff who have or may develop a gambling problem.

The BetSafe Program includes the following:

• Brochures and signs promoting responsible gambling
• A comprehensive 140 page policies and procedures manual
• Free 24 hour problem gambling counselling service for all patrons
• A 24 hour on call service to all Clubs
• Setting of exclusion provisions including self exclusion (self-banning)
• All staff are trained to assist people with gambling problems
• A "third party" complaints policy & procedure
• Counselling for staff who may be experiencing problems with gambling or alcohol
• Advertising and promotional guidelines to ensure gambling is responsibly promoted
• A crisis intervention service for all Clubs for patrons who may threaten to self harm
• Establishment of a BetSafe website
• Policing underage gambling
• Providing information about the availability of problem gambling services
• Limiting cash jackpot payouts
• Staff brochure
• The provision of informative material and brochures in several languages, on problem gambling and drinking

This Club is a proud member of the BetSafe group and our Board believes that the BetSafe Program for Responsible Conduct of Gambling will go a long way towards minimising the harm that a small percentage of our members may experience due to problem gambling behaviour.

Remember, if you think you may have a gambling problem, please take one of the BetSafe brochures located around your club, or call Paul Symond Consultancy at any time on

1800 BETSAFE (1800 238 7233)
www.betsafe.com.au