Cade Lucas
Reducing the harm caused by gambling was the focus of policies released by both the state government and Wyndham council last week.
On October 3, the state government announced reforms that would require gaming venues other than the casino to close their doors from 4am to 10am.
The mandatory closure periods are included in the Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 2023 which was introduced into parliament by Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation Minister Melissa Horne.
The reforms are in response to the Royal Commission into the Casino Operator and Licence which found evidence of gaming venues using staggered opening hours to allow patrons to move to nearby venues to continue gambling once one closes.
Minister Horne said the mandatory closures would help prevent this.
“We’ve seen predatory behaviour from some venues, allowing people to keep gambling for hours, at any hour,” she said,
“Closing gaming areas between 4am and 10am will give people an important break to reassess and walk away.”
If passed, the closure period will come into effect from mid-2024.
Wyndham has 13 gaming venues which take in $239,782 per day, the 7th highest gambling expenditure among council areas across the state.
While the regulation of the gaming industry is a state responsibility, Wyndham council has released its own plan to reduce the harm it causes in the community.
The Draft Gambling Harm Prevention Policy Statement was released for feedback on October 2 and replaces Wyndham council’s previous gambling harm minimisation policy.
Wyndham Mayor, Cr Susan McIntyre said the Draft Policy Statement aims to address the complex issues related to gambling while at the same time promoting healthy communities.
“This is done by working with partner organisations and advocating on behalf of the needs of our community, continuing our leadership role in working towards education and change, while also protecting those at risk,” Cr McIntyre said.
“The effects of gambling include poverty and financial pressure, personal distress, family violence, and homelessness.
Family violence also continues to be a major health and safety issue for Wyndham, representing a significant concern and priority for the community.”
To provide feedback on the draft policy statement, visit: theloop.wyndham.vic.gov.au/gambling-harm
