Across the country, a debate is raging on about the impact of pokies on the rates of gambling addiction. While many believe that pokie reform is the way to help reduce the rate of problem gambling, some are opposed to the initiative. Regardless of the differing opinions on pokie reform, something needs to be done about the increasing rate of gambling addiction and two former Newcastle Knights have presented a solution.
Gambling counsellor Ashley Gordon and reformed gambling addiction Owen Craigie have launched a new program that hosts workshops to aid families and individuals that have been affected by problem gambling. The workshops will take place in Sydney and the two former athletes are positive that they can make a difference. According to Gordon, the main cause of gambling addiction across Australia are pokies.
For years, the government has attempted to implement pokie reform and has finally made some headway this month. MP Andrew Wilke is in the process of planning the details, but has met with a great deal of resistance from sports club. Gordon and Craigie have sided with the MP on this one and they believe that clubs should not benefit from the financial problems that arise from gambling addiction.