The ‘gamble responsibly’ message will be ditched from betting ads broadcast on radio from April next year, replaced with seven new phrases that must be “read slowly, calmly and with an even pace”.

The new phrases, that are a part of a raft of changes, include

• “Chances are you’re about to lose”
• “Imagine what you could be buying instead”
• “You win some. You lose more”
• “What’s gambling really costing you?”
• “Think. Is this a bet you really want to place?

Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth (pictured) says that with this country’s gamblers losing more that other country in the world, the new statements are based on research that shows punters bet less after viewing them.

The Minister says, “The development of these activity statements has been informed by behavioural research to mean that they will actually work.

“Providers have worked constructively with government, and the aim is that problem gamblers are prevented from spiralling into debt.”