For the past few years, problem gambling has become a major concern in Australia. Problem gambling rates are higher than they have ever been, but support services are inadequate. To remedy this issue, the federal government has provided Wollongong with the funds needed to support families that have been affected by gambling addiction. The grant is part of a $22.6 million anti-gambling initiative in Canberra.

As part of the project, the Illawarra Legal Centre will be able to hire financial counsellors that will aid problem gamblers in the area. Whereas most politicians are concerned with betting limits and pre-commitment, they neglect to deal with the root of gambling addiction. Many problem gamblers exhibit compulsive behaviour simply because they have unrealistic views of money and gambling.

This is especially true for players that started out as underage gamblers. Now, this program will help players from this perspective, as councillors will provide helpful financial guidance. "It's the type of debt that needs a wider support and we need work in the community to support people who have this type of debt," says Truda Gray of the Illawarra Legal Centre.

The legal centre already employs three financial counsellors, who help individuals in the area manage their debt. The new councillor will deal exclusively with cases that are related to problem gambling. Other organizations across the country will also be able to hire financial counsellors for problem gamblers.

Mission Australia, Lifeline and Anglicare are just a few responsible gambling organizations that will take part in this new program, aimed at helping compulsive gamblers make more informed decisions about their spending. This is an important step in Australia’s fight against gambling addiction. The country is suffering from an overabundance of problem gambling and insufficient solutions. This program will certainly help to restore the balance.

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.