Across Victoria, we have seen lawmakers working hard to reduce spending among problem gamblers in the state. Over the course of the past few years, problem gambling in Victoria have dropped due to a number of new laws and government initiatives.
This week, the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation has launched a new initiative called ‘Win Back Your Life’, which will support the development of activities for youths that come from marginalised groups that are affected by high gambling rates. The initiative will start a training program that will help Victorian Arabic Social Services (VASS) staff to manage problem gambling issues that may arise in their communities.
Problem gambling is becoming a concern among Arabic residents in the country, and it is important that cultural groups are able to respond to the issue. The VASS has launched a new website and brochure that are targeted at helping problem gamblers, which can be viewed here.
It also aims to improve the physical, emotional, social and mental health of youth groups while increase their participation in activities that are alternatives to gambling. Recruiting role models and mentors will help the group to achieve this goal. They will also provide support and counselling. As part of the program, funding has been granted to programs that support various communities that are commonly affected by problem gambling.
The five ethno-specific agencies operate in communities that speak the following languages: Vietnamese, Chinese and Arabic. This is one of many initiatives in Victoria that aim to improve problem gambling rates in the state. However, it is one of the only programs that caters to youths.
Problem gambling is known to start from a very young age, and it is important for young people to find alternatives to gambling.
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