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Bets to Better

Bets to Better

Written by: ACT Gambling Support Service
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About this listen

 Join us as we dive into an important topic that affects many individuals, families and communities across the world – Gambling Harm. Gambling harm can be any negative consequence caused or made worse by gambling. Gambling harm can be difficult to recognise, sneaky, and will rarely impact an individual in isolation. Our host, Markus Fischer has worked in the mental health and alcohol and other drug sectors for over seven years, spending the last four years focused on gambling harm minimisation. Markus’ passion stems from his personal lived experience.

In this show, Markus speaks to various guests including those impacted by gambling harm, researchers, service providers and those in the industry. He provides information, encouragement, and pathways for others to reach out for support and assistance when they are negatively impacted by gambling.

Each episode explores the complexities of gambling harm, the resources available for those impacted, and effective harm minimisation strategies.

This podcast is brought to you by the ACT Gambling Support Service.

If you are impacted by gambling harm, please contact National Helpline on 1800 858 858 for free and confidential support.

If you're in the ACT and looking for support, visit actgamblingsupport.org.au.

If you are outside the ACT, visit gamblinghelponline.org.au to find support in your local area.
Copyright ACT Gambling Support Service Self-Help Success
Episodes
  • Bets to Better - Marisa - Relationships Australia

    Bets to Better - Marisa - Relationships Australia
    Feb 4 2026
    In this episode of Bets to Better, Markus is joined by Dr Marisa Paterson, ACT Labor Member for Murrumbidgee, and the Minister for Gaming Reform in the ACT.

    Markus and Marisa talk about the ACT Government’s public health approach to gambling harm and how to shift Australian culture to reduce gambling harm. They discuss the challenge of gambling harm particularly the marketing beast of the gambling industry.

    The resources mentioned in this episode include: FairPlay is an online resource designed to support the prevention of online gambling harm in children and young people. The Guide for Talking About Gambling and Related Harms developed by the ACT Gaming and Racing Commission can be found here here

    If you are impacted by gambling harm, please contact the National Helpline on 1800 858 858 for free and confidential support. If you’re in the ACT and looking for support, visit actgamblingsupport.org.au.

    If you are outside the ACT, visit gamblinghelponline.org.au to find support in your local area.
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    44 mins
  • Bets to Better - Jodie - Relationships Australia

    Bets to Better - Jodie - Relationships Australia
    Nov 21 2025
    In this episode of Bets to Better, Markus is joined by Jodie from the Canberra Recovery Service.

    Markus and Jodie speak on the co-occurrence of challenges such as gambling, alcohol and other drugs, trauma, and mental health concerns. They reflect on how far the rehabilitation sector has come, as well as expressing ideas on how to continue to improve services.

    Both share their lived experience of recovery and their passion for using their experiences to help others.

    For more information on Canberra Recovery Services, you can contact them on 02 6295 1256 or via email at CRC@salvationarmy.org.au. If you are impacted by gambling harm, please contact the National Helpline on 1800 858 858 for free and confidential support.

    If you’re in the ACT and looking for support, visit actgamblingsupport.org.au.


    If you are outside the ACT, visit gamblinghelponline.org.au to find support in your local area.
    Show More Show Less
    49 mins
  • Bets to Better - Annie - Relationships Australia

    Bets to Better - Annie - Relationships Australia
    Oct 20 2025
    In this episode of Bets to Better, Markus is joined by Annie, one of our Counsellors at the ACT Gambling Support Service and Relationships Australia.

    Markus and Annie got together to talk about those who might not necessarily engage in gambling, but are impacted by gambling harm – friends, families and other loved ones.

    Annie announces the launch of a new drop-in support group available in the ACT for this group. They discuss the power of peer support and how coming together with others who share your experience can be beneficial.

    For more information on our family & friends drop in support group visit https://actgamblingsupport.org.au/support/family-friends-drop-in-group/.

    They also talk about some of the tricky conversations that family and friends may need to navigate with the person engaging in gambling, offering some helpful suggestions on where to start.

    If you are impacted by gambling harm, please contact the National Helpline on 1800 858 858 for free and confidential support. If you’re in the ACT and looking for support, visit actgamblingsupport.org.au.

    If you are outside the ACT, visit gamblinghelponline.org.au to find support in your local area.
    Show More Show Less
    41 mins
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