'Know your why’ to Bet Different and Risk Less

Aussie Rules Football legend Sam Docherty and Rugby League superstar Cameron Munster might be champions of different codes, but both stand united in encouraging people to take practical steps to gamble safely.

Gambling Harm Awareness Week ambassador, Sam Docherty said, ‘My journey with gambling hasn't been linear. There have been things that I've got right and things I've got wrong, but one of the biggest lessons I've learned is to think ahead before placing a bet.

That means deciding what I'm comfortable spending, setting limits and sticking to them. Finding the approach that works for you can make all the difference.’

Cameron Munster said, ‘It all comes back to my family. Going to the races or a sporting event can be a great day out, but it's important to know your limits and have strategies that help you stay on track.

‘When I think about what's most important to me, being present for my kids is a powerful reminder of why those limits matter.’

To help Victorians better understand the psychological factors that can influence decisions while gambling, the VGCCC partnered with consumer neuroscientist, Dr Phil Harris.

Drawing on his expertise in consumer behaviour, Dr Harris said gambling activity can affect the way people make decisions, particularly when emotions and the anticipation of a reward take over.

‘When the rewards system in our brain is driving our decisions, we tend to turn down signals from other parts of the brain that are much more sensitive to risk. So, we are much more likely to make impulsive decisions that aren’t necessarily in our best interest.’

Sam and Cameron have shared their experiences with Dr Harris through new social media and digital content, which is available on the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission’s website(opens in a new window).

Placing a bet is never more than a few taps away for most Victorians, who spend more than $7 billion on gambling annually, including $2.6 billion on wagering and sports betting.

As an annual event that encourages people to understand the risks of gambling, Gambling Harm Awareness Week this year asks people to think about how often and for how long they gamble and highlights simple changes that can help reduce the risk of experiencing gambling harm.

Gambling Harm Awareness Week is focused on 3 safer gambling practices;

1. Take a break – pause, reflect and reset
2. Bet once a week, max – less often, lower risk
3. Set a time limit – plan before you play

Launching Gambling Harm Awareness Week 2026, VGCCC CEO Suzy Neilan said, ‘Sam and Cameron are champions of the sporting world, and the authenticity that they bring the campaign helps foster a safer-gambling culture across the community. I’d like to thank them for helping to encourage others to implement safer gambling practices,’ Ms Neilan said.

Ms Neilan said gambling providers also have an important role to play, not only during Gambling Harm Awareness Week.

‘Preventing gambling harm is not a one-week campaign, it's a year-round commitment. We are focused on ensuring the industry has the systems and controls in place to minimise gambling harm and protect Victorians.’

‘When operators fail to meet their obligations, we do not hesitate in applying appropriate regulatory action.’

Gambling Harm Awareness Week runs from 24 to 31 October.

Additional information:

People with concerns about a gambling provider’s behaviour can also lodge a complaint or tip-off via the VGCCC website or call 1300 599 759.

Anyone negatively affected by their own or someone else’s gambling is encouraged to call the 24/7 Gambler’s Helpline on 1800 858 858 for free and confidential support.