A new NSW Government resource will assist in teaching senior high school students about the risks of gambling.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Justice Troy Grant and Minister for Education Adrian Piccoli said the new material will help young people to make informed decisions about the potential dangers involved.

The NSW Government’s Responsible Gambling Fund and the NSW Department of Education and Communities developed the resources following an $18,000 allocation from the Responsible Gambling Fund.

“My message to young people is that gambling is not a game – just because you might be good at gaming it doesn’t mean you are good at gambling,’’ Mr Grant said.

“The long-term consequences of problem gambling can have serious impacts on finances, careers, family, and relationships with partners and friends.

“We want to protect our young people from the potential pitfalls of gambling given its spread through multiple channels such as mobile devices and the internet, and we also want educators and parents to be wise to the issues to help minimise exposure to harm.”

Mr Piccoli said gambling issues can be taught as part of the Crossroads program, which is mandatory for Years 11 and 12 students in NSW government schools.

“Crossroads has been an important part of the senior curriculum in NSW government schools for some years and helps students learn about responsible behaviour in a range of contexts including alcohol, drugs, driving and gambling,” Mr Piccoli said.

“This new resource for teachers focuses on the risks and costs of gambling, sports betting and advertising, online and smart phone gambling.’’ Free and confidential problem gambling counselling can be accessed 24 hours a day, seven days a week on 1800 858 858 or through www.gamblinghelp.nsw.gov.au