This week is Gambling Harm Awareness Week (18-24 October 2021) and it provides an opportunity to talk about the harms associated with gambling and the effects this can have on communities, families, friends, workplaces and individuals.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, harm from gambling has increased in Brimbank and Victoria.
Losses on poker machines are up by 15 per cent and spending on online gambling has grown significantly.
To mark the week Brimbank Council is hosting a Community Conversation - Preventing and reducing gambling harm in Brimbank event.
This is a no-charge Facebook Live event, and we will be joined by three special guests:
- Reverend Tim Costello AO (Alliance for Gambling Reform)
- Professor Samantha Thomas (Deakin University)
- Ian Correia (lived experience advocate and community educator)
The event will highlight some of the research, lived experience and community responses to preventing and reducing gambling harm in Brimbank.
It will also focus on the key drivers of gambling harm in our community, and highlight the regulatory reform needed to better protect vulnerable groups.
Please join us to share your thoughts, ask a question and learn more about local supports and resources, which will soon be available through Council's libraries, neighbourhood houses, leisure centres, and on our website.
Event details are as follows:
- Date: Wednesday 20 October 2021
- Time: 7-8.30pm
- Location: No bookings necessary – simply log on to the Brimbank City Council Facebook page to join the broadcast
Quotes attributable to Brimbank Mayor, Cr Ranka Rasic:
"Daily losses in Brimbank are reaching staggering proportions and undermining our COVID-19 recovery.
"We know gambling harm can affect people's mental health, including through increased anxiety and depression and are reminded in October, during National Mental Health Month, of the importance of looking after our mental health and wellbeing.
"We'll have some fabulous resources available soon at our libraries, neighbourhood houses and leisure centres, or tap into them online via Council's website.
"I'm looking forward to welcoming you to the Community Conversation - Preventing and reducing gambling harm in Brimbank event, and I hope everyone gains from this important conversation."
