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Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the money go?

100% of gaming profits go back into our communities. This money helps support important programs and services, like schools, roads, and health care, which benefit all Nova Scotians. Learn more.

Where can I get a lottery licence?

The Alcohol and Gaming Division of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations processes charitable gaming applications and grants licences. Learn more.

Who runs the casinos and the lotteries?

Casino Nova Scotia, which is owned by the Great Canadian Entertainment, manages our two casinos – one in Halifax and the other in Sydney.  Atlantic Lottery operates ticket and video lottery for the four Atlantic Provinces, including Nova Scotia. Learn more.

What are you doing to prevent problem gambling?

Nova Scotia Gaming is committed to minimizing gambling harms. We want players who are experiencing harms from gambling to reduce their play or stop gambling altogether.

Overall, our approach is to ensure our players have all the information and tools they need to make informed choices to help reduce the risk of harms. We build and implement innovative programs based on best practices and research, such as the training programs for Casino Nova Scotia and ticket lottery/video lottery retailers. We also have voluntary-self exclusion available at Casino Nova Scotia and through alc.ca.

What is the problem gambling rate in Nova Scotia?

Nova Scotia has among the lowest problem gambling rates in the country at 0.8% of individuals who gamble. However, we believe that just one person who has a problem with gambling is one too many. Learn more.

If someone has a problem, where can they get help?

If you or someone you know is experiencing harms from gambling, please contact the Gambling Support Network (GSN). The GSN provides online and phone support for Nova Scotians and their families who may have gambling-related concerns.  The services are free, confidential and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Call the trained counsellors for province-wide and free support at the Gambling Support Network: 1-888-347-8888 or TTY access through 711, or visit gamblingsupportnetwork.ca

Does NSGC give away cash prizes?

NSGC does not give away cash prizes directly to Nova Scotians. If you are contacted by someone offering you a cash prize from NSGC, or its former name the Nova Scotia Provincial Lotteries & Casino Corporation (NSPLCC), please know this is a scam. Trust your instincts and exercise caution with any calls or offers that seem too good to be true. You can find tips on how to protect yourself and actions to take if you’ve been targeted in a scam on the RCMP’s website