- Published:
- Wednesday 21 October 2020
More Victorians are being supported to address gambling harm, with an additional $660,000 for migrant and refugee communities, and community sporting clubs.
Minister for Gaming and Liquor Regulation Melissa Horne today announced extra funding for two Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation (VRGF) programs during Gambling Harm Awareness Week (19–25 October).
A new statewide multicultural service – which will complement existing gambling harm prevention and counselling services for Vietnamese, Chinese and Arabic communities – will be delivered by Settlement Services International.
The service will offer a culturally safe, central point of contact for migrant and refugee community members. It provides in-language counselling, information and activities to help them address gambling harm in their own communities, as well as a consultation and coordination service for health professionals.
Community-level AFL, netball and basketball clubs will also receive extra funding to teach kids about the potential risks and harms associated with gambling in sport through their participation in VRGF’s Love the Game program.
Gambling Harm Awareness Week encourages people to talk about the harms associated with gambling and the effects they can have on communities, families, friends, workplaces and individuals. Gambling harm can affect self-esteem, relationships, physical and mental health, work performance and social life.
The Victorian Government has committed $153 million over four years to the VRGF, one of the largest funding commitments to address gambling harm in Australia.
For more information about Gambling Harm Awareness week, visit responsiblegambling.vic.gov.au.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Gaming and Liquor Regulation Melissa Horne
“During Gambling Harm Awareness Week, we’re encouraging Victorians to break down the stigma associated with gambling harm through open conversations with friends and family members.”
“Common types of gambling harm include financial worries, relationship problems and emotional effects like stress or shame. Sharing personal stories of recovery can offer hope to those who are struggling.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Multicultural Affairs and Community Sport Ros Spence
“The new multicultural service will tailor programs and services to diverse migrant and refugee communities, ensuring more Victorians have access to information and support.”
“We’re making sure local sporting clubs have all the tools they need to keep kids alert to the risks of gambling in sport.”
Quote attributable to Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation CEO Shane Lucas
“I would encourage anyone who is concerned about their own or someone else’s gambling to contact Gambler’s Help on 1800 858 858 – they’re there to support anyone struggling.”