Learn about the effects of gambling on our community and find resources and assistance for dealing with gambling-related harm.
Gambling
There are many different types of gambling, including lotteries, scratchies, pokies, betting and casino games.
While gambling can be a recreational or entertainment activity, it can also have a negative impact on the health and wellbeing of individuals, families and the broader community.
Council plays a role in managing the impacts of gambling in our community by:
- assessing applications for new electronic gaming machines
- managing the use of Council venues and public spaces
- ensuring community grants are not provided to groups with access to revenue from electronic gaming machines
- Monitoring gambling harm
- Raising community awareness (e.g. Gambling Harm Awareness Week)
- Advocating for positive change
Electronic gaming machines
Electronic gaming machines (EGMs), also known as ‘pokies’ are a high-intensity form of gambling and the most harmful form of gambling in Australia.
Financial losses through EGMs can cause harm in terms of reduced savings; less time spent with friends and family; and feelings of regret, distress, anger and shame.
People living in disadvantaged neighbourhoods and those without close social ties are known to be more vulnerable to gambling. This includes international students, young people living away from their families and social networks, older people and others who may be isolated in the community.
EGMs in Stonnington
There are five venues with electronic gaming machines (EGMs) or ‘pokies’ in Stonnington.
To find out about daily and weekly EGM expenditure in Stonnington and how we compare to other municipalities, visit the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation website.
For information about expenditure by venue, visit Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation website.
Help for adults
Gambler’s Help
Phone Gambler's Help on 1800 858 858 for 24-hour confidential phone counselling or visit Gambling Support Services.
Gambling Help Online provides free online counselling services by trained staff, including live counselling, email support, self-help tools and information on gambling.
Gambler’s Help Southern (Better Health Network)
The Gambler's Help Southern program is available locally from Better Health Network, located in Prahran. This program offers free, confidential services to help prevent or reduce the negative impacts of gambling on individuals, families and the community.
For a booking or to make an enquiry phone 03 9575 5353 or email ghs.intake@connecthealth.org.au
Financial help
National Debt Helpline
Phone the helpline at 1800 007 007 (Monday to Friday, 9:30 am to 4:30 pm) or visit the National Debt Helpline’s Find a Financial Counsellor directory.
Mental health help
Beyond Blue
Beyond Blue is a national, independent, not-for-profit organisation with information about gambling and depression.
Phone 1300 224 636 or visit the Beyond Blue website.
Lifeline
Lifeline offers 24/7 crisis support. Phone 13 11 14 for help and support or visit the Lifeline website. You can also text the service on 0477 131 114 from 12 pm to 2 am.
Help for young people
Kids Helpline
Kids Helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7 online and phone counselling service for young people aged 5 to 25. Phone 1800 551 800 or WebChat with a counsellor anytime and for any reason.
Information for parents and guardians
Games with gambling components are common, however these components may not appear like gambling at first glance.
For more information on popular games, game genres and pricing structures, refer to these fact sheets from the Victorian Responsible Gaming Foundation:
If you're not sure if a game has simulated gambling, you can find all the latest classifications on the Australian Classification website.
Like some other recreational activities, gaming can have positive and negative effects for young people. An important part of looking after your family’s health and wellbeing is understanding the signs of how much is too much.
For helpful information on why young people game and how to set boundaries to develop a healthy online life, read these Victorian Responsible Gaming Foundation resources: