The Andrews Labor Government is providing $100,000 for a project that will focus on preventing gambling harm in the Ballarat region.
Member for Buninyong Michaela Settle congratulated Ballarat Community Health on their successful proposal to look at ways of preventing gambling harm in their community.
Ballarat Community Health will receive the funding over two years for their All-in -Ballarat’s Collective Impact Gambling Harm Awareness Campaign.
This project will recruit stakeholders from at least 10 key organisations in Ballarat to support the co-design of local initiatives and the development of marketing, engagement and communications plan, identifying key messages and opportunities.
In the Ballarat region this will help to reduce the stigma associated with gambling harm, and improve messaging to encourage people to be more open, talk to their friends and family, and be more comfortable in seeking the support they may require.
Fourteen community-based, not-for-profit organisations will receive a share of almost $2 million under the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation’s 2019-21 Prevention Partnerships Program.
The program supports community organisations to test new ideas and build evidence for effective practice in the prevention of gambling harm.
The funded projects will help build social connection and resilience to prevent gambling harm, break down the stigma associated with harm and encourage people affected to seek advice and support.
The grants were announced as part of Gambling Harm Awareness Week (7–13 October) during which communities are encouraged to talk about the issue of gambling harm, share their personal experiences and support those affected as part of the theme TALK. SHARE. SUPPORT.
Around 550,000 Victorians experience harm from their own gambling each year, with up to six more affected as part of someone else’s gambling.
To participate in a conversation about gambling harm on social media, use #GamblingHarm and/or #TalkShareSupport.
For more information about the Prevention Partnerships Program and funded projects, visit responsiblegambling.vic.gov.au.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Gaming and Liquor Regulation Marlene Kairouz
“This investment in local gambling harm prevention projects will ensure communities like the Ballarat region have support from people within their community.”
“Gambling harm is often hidden because people feel uncomfortable talking about it. I commend Ballarat Community Health for tackling this through their innovative project/s.
Quotes attributable to Member for Buninyong Michaela Settle
“I want to congratulate Ballarat Community Health on their commitment to preventing gambling harm in the Ballarat region.”
“I have experienced the impact of gambling harm and understand all too well the stigma that can come with it. It is vital we break down the barriers to people receiving treatment and this project is designed to do that.”
Quote attributable to Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison
“Sadly, the impact of gambling harm in our community is widespread. We’re working to ensure that those in our region, including those in our justice system, receive the mental health support they need, now.”
