Gambling Harm Awareness Week 2018 is designed to encourage community discussions about why gambling harm matters and runs until Sunday 14 October. 

We recognise that gambling is a big issue in our community. Earlier this year we joined the Alliance for Gambling Reform, alongside a record number of 19 Victorian councils. The focus of the Alliance is to ensure pokies reform is on the agenda for the upcoming state election in November. 

Yarra residents lose over $85,000 to pokies every day. This adds up to over $31 million per year. 

Last month, the Alliance unveiled a large mobile billboard bearing the message “Victorian pokies losses = $3.2 billion a year. Enough!” and “Victorian Councils unite to stop pokies harm”.

Alliance spokesman and director Tim Costello said data from The Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation shows that Victoria is headed for record pokies losses in 2018.

“Our communities are suffering from gambling harm and it’s only getting worse,” Mr Costello said.

“Pokies account for 80 per cent of all gambling addiction.  Pokies losses are linked to family violence, suicide, financial hardship and crime.”

To get involved, go to one of the 50 community events being held this week. If you need support, visit the Gamblers Help website.