Australia has one of the highest rates of gambling addiction in the world. With an average loss of over $700 per person, the problem has almost spun out of control. The new pokie perform has set out to deal with the issue, but many families already affected need financial help and counselling. A new program from the ACT has set out to help these families, and the response to its establishment has been astounding.
According to a spokesperson for the new program, it has received two new referrals a day. Without receiving much media coverage or taking out very much advertising, this is a positive outcome, especially for the program's first month of operation. As the weeks go on, the program hopes to create more awareness, which is expected to increase the number of referrals exponentially.
The program is funded by a new tax levy, and is the first of its kind in the country's capital. Wheras previous gambling addiction programs sought to deal with the gambling addiction on its own, this new program takes into consideration the many causes of the condition. In addition to mental health counselling, it will also offer financial support to families and individuals who have been affected by gambling addictions.
There is a long way to go for Australia, in terms of reducing the rate of gambling addiction, but this is a positive first step.