What we do

The Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation works with partners and communities across Victoria to inform people about the risks of gambling, and to provide support to those who need it, including people affected by someone else’s gambling.

Research tells us gambling harm is not confined to people with severe gambling issues. In raising awareness of the risks and potential harm from gambling, we focus on the community as a whole. We want as many Victorians as possible to be able to recognise the early signs of harm, understand how gambling can get out of control, and know how to get help if they experience harm.

Find out more about our approach to reducing harm from gambling.

Each year we identify new areas of gambling to research and award grants so we can learn more about how gambling continues to affect our community. We also commission major research projects. The growing body of evidence produced informs all aspects of our work.

Find out more about our research program.

We monitor the gambling environment and stay abreast of regulatory changes so we can provide accurate, up-to-date information about gambling and its regulation and licence approval processes to any Victorian requesting the facts. We also provide local, state and federal governments with evidence and advice to inform policies and programs.

Find out more about gambling in Victoria.

Gambler’s Help agencies across Victoria provide a range of services for people experiencing harm from gambling. This includes support tailored to the needs of individuals and communities at particular risk of harm. Funded by the Foundation, services include online, telephone and face-to-face counselling, advice and information.

Find out more about how Victorians can access Gambler’s Help services.

We run a learning and development program for Gambler’s Help professionals and others who work with people affected by gambling. This assists practitioners to strengthen their skills and stay up to date with the latest research and clinical approaches. We also work with other sectors in providing and receiving training so we can deliver more holistic services.

Find out more about the support we offer for professionals.

In 2020, the Victorian Auditor-General’s Office (VAGO) conducted a performance audit under s 14 of the Audit Act 1994 to assess whether the Foundation is effectively reducing the severity of harm related to gambling.

The VAGO report, Reducing the harm caused by gambling, was tabled in the Victorian Parliament on 18 March 2021. It contains eight recommendations to enhance the Foundation’s performance, all of which have been accepted.

Find out more about the VAGO performance audit.