The National Council on Problem Gambling was created in 2005 as a part of Singapore's Casino Control act, an act meant to raise public awareness of problem online gambling. Under this act, the NCPG's members are appointed by the Minister for Community Development, Youth and Sports. The NCPG can have up to 20 members, including the chairman. To date, members have included representatives from the corporate, legal, counseling, research and religious fields. Council Functions

The functions of the National Council on Problem Gambling are as follows:
- Provide advice and feedback to the Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports on public education programs on problem gambling.
- Decide on funding applications for preventive and rehabilitative programs.
- Assess and advise the government on the effectiveness of treatment, counseling and rehabilitative programs.

Exclusion Orders

The National Council on Problem Gambling also has the authority make, vary, and revoke casino exclusion orders; they are required to keep a list of these exclusions for casinos. There are three types of these orders: self-exclusions, third party exclusions, and family exclusions.

Self-Exclusions and Third-Party Exclusions

The council automatically approves applications for self-inclusion; self-inclusion bans can be lifted after a year at the applicant's request. Some third-party exclusions are also automatically approved, including un-discharged bankruptcies and people who receive government assistance. No third party exclusion can be lifted until the issue that caused the exclusion has been resolved.

Family Exclusions

The family exclusions are unique; family members can apply for immediate family (spouses, children, parents and siblings), but only if the gambling has caused harm in some way over a period of three months or more. Like self-exclusions, these cannot be lifted for at least a year.

The National Council on Problem Gambling and groups like it are important in assisting people with gambling problems. There are three ways that you can support NCPG. Supporters can be Participants (in-kind contributions), Partners ($500.00) or Corporate ($5,000). Depending on the level, sponsors can get materials, website recognition, newsletters, plaques, free trips to conferences, and more from the NCPG.