Help available for gamblers

Residents of Baw Baw Shire and their families have been reminded that local help is available for problem gamblers following the release of new statistics showing they continue to haemorrhage money to electronic gaming machines.

According to the Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation (VCGLR), in the 2015-16 financial year, residents of Baw Baw Shire lost $14.66 million on electronic gaming machines, or the pokies.

This amount represents a 10 per cent increase from the previous financial year.

Gambler’s Help partnership officer Tenille Thorburn said it was still a huge amount of money considering many residents already face social disadvantages.

“We want to remind people that there are ways they can seek help if they are concerned about their gambling behaviour,” said Ms Thorburn.

“Gambling can be addictive, and as with all addictions, you should get professional help.

“Through the Gambler’s Help service at Latrobe Community Health Service, we provide therapeutic and financial counselling, recovery assistance and education. These services are free and confidential.”

Across Gippsland’s six local government areas, total losses at the pokies amounted to $126.5 million, an increase of $3 million from the previous year.

Ms Thorburn also reminded people they are not alone.

“It’s estimated that for every one person experiencing problems with their gambling, up to 10 other people are impacted. Problem gambling can be linked to mental health issues, financial difficulty and relationship breakdowns,” she said.

“Gambling is meant to be a form of entertainment, and not a way to cope with or escape from other social or personal issues.”

For more information about Gambler’s Help services, visit www.lchs.com.au/gambling-alcohol-drugs/gambling or phone 1800 242 696.