Keen to help others?
Have you had some difficult times as a result of your gambling? Are you concerned other people may fall into the same gambling traps that you have? Are you keen to ensure that what happened to you, doesn’t happen to others?
If so, there are a number of things you can do to help!
Consumer voices
A number of problem gambling services run consumer groups to help give a voice to people affected by problem gambling. For further information contact .
Community action groups
A number of community action groups have been established to address gambling harm in the community. There are a range of options:
- You could join an existing group
- You could put problem gambling on the agenda of other community groups you might be involved in
- You could even look at starting your own group.
For ideas and support with community action groups contact the Problem Gambling Foundation on .
Monitor local gambling venues
All gambling venues are required to meet certain host responsibility obligations, such as providing printed information on problem gambling and excluding problem gamblers from venues.
It is really important that venues meet their requirements to help protect customers from gambling harm. If you feel that a venue is not meeting its obligations you can contact the Department of Internal Affairs to make a complaint.
Local council
The Gambling Act allows local or regional councils (or territorial authorities) to control the growth of gambling. Your council will have a policy in place that can limit the number of pokie machines or class 4 venues and where they can be placed in your area.
Your council must review its policy periodically and must consult with the community during the review. Contact your local council to find out when the next review will be and how to make a submission.
Would you like help with your submission?
The Problem Gambling Foundation can support you if you wish to make a submission. Call the Problem Problem Gambling Foundation on .
Gambling law and regulations
The requirements for gambling venues are set out in the Gambling Act . If you are concerned or have comments about gambling laws or regulations you may like to:
- Write to your local MP
- Write to the Minister for Gambling - Hon Peter Dunne
- Join a local community action group, and raise the issue there.