South African Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF). Last updated 2026-07-26.
The South African Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF) is the country's leading independent organisation for the prevention and treatment of problem gambling. It is a public and private partnership between the National Gambling Board, the provincial licensing authorities and the gambling industry, funded by a voluntary industry contribution of 0.1% of Gross Gaming Revenue plus public grants for defined projects. Through its flagship National Responsible Gambling Programme (NRGP), the SARGF operates a free, confidential 24/7 counselling helpline on 0800 006 008 and refers callers to a nationwide network of treatment professionals.
Key facts
| Jurisdiction | National (public and private partnership) |
| Head office | Johannesburg, Gauteng |
| Telephone | +27 11 026 7323 |
| Enquiries | info@responsiblegambling.org.za |
| Established | 2000 (incorporated 2004 as NPC) |
| Governing Act | Public and private partnership; not-for-profit company under the Companies Act 71 of 2008 |
| Official site | responsiblegambling.org.za |
What the SARGF does
The South African Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF) is the country's leading independent organisation for the prevention and treatment of problem gambling. It is a public and private partnership between the National Gambling Board, the provincial licensing authorities and the gambling industry, funded by a voluntary industry contribution of 0.1% of Gross Gaming Revenue plus public grants for defined projects. Through its flagship National Responsible Gambling Programme (NRGP), the SARGF operates a free, confidential 24/7 counselling helpline on 0800 006 008 and refers callers to a nationwide network of treatment professionals.
- Operate the free, confidential 24/7 National Responsible Gambling counselling helpline on 0800 006 008
- Fund and coordinate free outpatient and inpatient treatment for problem gambling through the NRGP network
- Deliver public education and prevention campaigns on responsible gambling
- Conduct and publish research on gambling behaviour and problem gambling in South Africa
- Support self-exclusion administration together with operators and provincial licensing authorities
- Provide responsible gambling training for operator staff
Members and affiliated operators
The SARGF is funded by voluntary contributions from the South African gambling industry (casinos, sports betting, bingo, LPMs, totalisators and bookmakers), pegged at 0.1% of industry Gross Gaming Revenue. It does not license operators.
Recent programmes and initiatives
- 2025. Ongoing operation of the online support group launched in 2024, which has supported over 400 individuals in its first year.
- 2024. Continued delivery of the National Responsible Gambling Programme with free 24/7 counselling and a nationwide treatment network.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get help for a gambling problem?
Call the free, confidential 24/7 National Responsible Gambling Programme helpline on 0800 006 008, WhatsApp or SMS 'HELP' to 076 675 0710, or email [email protected]. All counselling and referral services are free of charge.
How do I self-exclude from gambling?
Request your gambling operator to exclude you: contact their security department for the process and forms. The operator submits the forms to the Provincial Licensing Authority and the National Gambling Board. After self-excluding, contact the SARGF for free counselling and support.
Who funds the SARGF?
The SARGF is funded mainly by a voluntary contribution from the South African gambling industry of 0.1% of Gross Gaming Revenue, plus certain public grants for defined special projects and provincial responsible-gambling programmes.
Is the SARGF a gambling regulator?
No. The SARGF is a not-for-profit company delivering responsible gambling services. Regulation of gambling remains with the provincial gambling boards and the National Gambling Board.