Across Australia, problem gambling has become a major concern for politicians, and they are constantly considering new ways to deal with the issue. Recently, Hospitality, Gaming and Racing Minister Troy Grant has devised one solution that could help to reduce problem gambling rates, as the new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between clubs and counselling services will improve assistance for compulsive gamblers.
Mr Grant states that the new MoU will provide clubs and counsellors to communicate more freely and work together more effectively It will improve their relationship, which will benefit the local community in the long run by helping to reduce problem gambling rates.
"It's a great chance for us to be able to assist with the government's campaign to improve problematic gambling support," says Alex Ferguson, Executive Director of Lifeline, a problem gambling support service. At the introduction of the MoU, Mr Grant also revealed the new ClubSAFE Responsible Gambling management manual.
This document is a promotional guide that will advise clubs across NSW on the best responsible gambling practices. It will ensure that patrons are made aware of the services that are available to them if they find that they are losing control of their spending or exhibiting signs of problem gambling. He notes that now is a crucial time in the gambling industry, as pokies and sportsbetting become ever more accessible.
As such, it is important for the local government to make the effort to ensure that there are enough services available for at risk players. "People can quite easily pull out their phones or tablets and place a bet with the swipe of a finger," he says. "This will be the greatest challenge I will face as Minister”.
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