Foundation applauds Melbourne FC’s bold decision to phase out pokies

Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation CEO Louise Glanville has welcomed Melbourne Football Club’s announcement today that it plans to divest itself of gaming machines as a source of revenue.

‘Congratulations to Chairman Glen Bartlett, CEO Peter Jackson, and all at Melbourne Football Club for making this difficult but important financial decision to exit the gaming industry,’ Ms Glanville said.

‘It is clear that Melbourne Football Club has carefully considered the financial implications of moving away from pokies and, like North Melbourne, believes that the club can flourish without them.’

Ms Glanville said she was encouraged by the decision and hoped that other clubs would also reconsider their connection with pokies, which are associated with gambling harm in the community.

‘Melbourne Football Club’s decision demonstrates a clear commitment to corporate social responsibility.

‘In 2018, for the first time, all 10 Victorian AFL clubs are signed up to the Foundation’s Love the Game Charter and pledged to reduce exposure of their fans and members to sports betting.

‘The Foundation is proud to support the commitment by these clubs to address social issues, including through our #LoveTheGame themed round in Victoria this season.

‘Our elite and grassroots sporting club partners help us spread the message that the best way to enjoy sport is to celebrate its great moments and to love the game, not the odds,’ she said.