Under the problem gambling family protection orders scheme, a person (for example: a spouse, domestic partner or child) who is affected by a family member's gambling problem can make a complaint to the Independent Gambling Authority about the family member's gambling problem. In certain circumstances, the Authority may receive a complaint on behalf of the family from a person who is not a family member.

The Authority has powers to make orders to address the person's problem gambling behaviour, which can include: barring from gaming venues, requirements to attend counselling, requirements about payment of wages, &c. The Authority will not usually make any orders until it has conducted a hearing into the complaint.

To work out whether you are able to make a complaint and to help decide whether you want to, senior staff of the Authority are available to talk about the scheme. Please telephone (08) 8226 7233.

If you wish to make a complaint under the scheme, the first step is an interview to complete the form (the PGA form that you will be asked to complete at the interview is available here). You will need to telephone (08) 8226 7233 to arrange an appointment.

You are able to bring a friend or counsellor along to attend the appointment and give you support.

Information about how hearings under the scheme are conducted can be found here.

Section 18 of the Problem Gambling Family Protection Orders Act 2004 requires the Minister administering the Act to cause a report to be laid before each House of Parliament at least annually. A copy of the report for the year from 1 July 2006 to 30 June 2007, as tabled in Parliament, is attached here.