Problem gambling is a prevalent issue across Australia. There is an abundance of poker machines and, while they are not inherently addictive games, they sometimes provide outlets for individuals to exercise unhealthy gabling habits. As a result, local community groups are looking for ways to curb gambling problems so that pokies are not used for entertainment purposes, as they are intended.

This has prompted a number of reviews and studies on the issue of problem gambling, as communities aim to get to the bottom of the issue. The State Government in Queensland is conducting a review in Cape York on problem gambling’s effects on childcare. Senior Sergeant Brendon McMahon notes that gambling has become a normalized activity in the town of Cape York, which has resulted in ‘less than suitable’ childcare.

In cases where parents are addicted to gambling, other family members are required to look after and feed their children. In some unfortunate situations, children become victims of neglect. So, McMahon has suggested that a child safety care officer be employed in the town, ensuring that gambling does not interfere with parents’ ability to after their children.

The issue of child neglect in relation to gambling addiction has been exhibited in a number of recent cases. Earlier this year, two parents were arrested after having locked their children in a van while playing casino games at SkyCity. This case prompted the release of statistics which show that dozens of parents across Australia and New Zealand do so every year. As such, it is up to community leaders to take a stand for child safety.

With other forms of addiction, there are support services available to families which are affected. The same should be applied to problem gambling, as many children are left hungry and neglected while their parents visit casinos. Counselling services are also important to families that have been affected by problem gambling.

While curbing problem gambling rates is the ultimate goal for the local government, it is also important to deal with its effects, and these provisions will help obtain that goal.

About the Author

George Anderson
Author George, has over 25+ years’ experience in the Pokies and Casinos industry throughout Australia and New Zealand. Loves to research new Pokies games on the block and follows announcements from top industry providers about their upcoming releases. As soon as a new interesting pokie game appears on his radar, George is there to check it out and give you the scoop before anyone else and tell you about all casino sites where can play the latest game. Before this gig, George worked as Pokie game tester, making him an ideal candidate for this genre of work. He is also an animal lover and a proud owner of three dogs.