$2.4m boost for prevention of gambling-related harm

Funding for projects to reduce gambling-related harm is being boosted to $2.4 million under a new prevention program from the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation.

Foundation chief executive officer Serge Sardo says the jump represents a four-fold increase to the available budget for local prevention projects.

“Reducing gambling-related harm requires a range of local prevention activities that reach Victorian people who are most at-risk,” he said.

The Foundation is inviting eligible organisations across Victoria to apply for funding to run local prevention projects.

Minister for Liquor and Gaming Regulation Edward O’Donohue has welcomed the increase to the available funding and the Foundation’s emphasis on working at a local level.

“Partnering with local organisations on locally relevant projects will assist the Foundation achieve its vision for a Victoria free from gambling-related harm.”

“Enhancing prevention activities will also reinforce Victoria’s position as a leader in addressing problem gambling and promoting responsible gambling,” he said.

Set to launch on 1 July 2014, the new program will complement the Foundation’s existing portfolio of prevention and community education activities, which also includes public information campaigns and programs for schools and sports clubs.

The increase in funding is in line with the recommendations of a 2013 review of the Foundation’s local community education and prevention model by the Australian Institute for Primary Care and Ageing (AIPCA).

While the review endorsed the Foundation’s public health approach, it also recommended an increase in prevention activities along with the development of a more comprehensive and cohesive prevention strategy.

Mr Sardo says the Foundation will fund project-based prevention activities that focus on the determinants of problem gambling.

“The Foundation is looking for innovative projects that promote responsible gambling in gambling settings or environments, with a focus on the determinants and risk factors associated with gambling-related harm,” said Mr Sardo.

For further information about the Local Prevention Projects Grants Program (VRGF – 3-14) and to apply, go to www.tenders.vic.gov.au. Applications close at 5pm, 10 April 2014.