$4m grants offered for organisations preventing gambling

New grants totalling $4 million over the next two years will help prevent gambling harm in the community as part of the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation’s Prevention Partnership Program.

Applications for the new grants, which will span two years from 1 July 2017 to 30 June 2019, open today.

Groups with an interest in preventing gambling harm including community-based, not for profit, social enterprise, local government or public health organisations are encouraged to apply.

The program trials new ways of preventing gambling harm, encourages collaboration between organisations and has a strong focus on at risk groups. Funding is available for projects which:

·        prevent gambling from becoming a normal activity in the community because of the increased access via technology and promotion online and through sport
·        build social connection and resilience, to prevent and reduce gambling harm in local communities and at-risk groups
·        break down the stigma around gambling harm and encourage people affected by gambling to seek advice and support
·        work with professionals from a range of sectors such as health, legal, corrections, youth or family violence to build their understanding of gambling harm and support available
·        build skills and knowledge to support Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) organisations to prevent gambling harm and refer people to support services.

There will also be the opportunity for organisations which are currently funded through the foundation’s prevention program, to apply for further funding.

The Minister for Consumer Affairs, Gaming and Liquor Regulation, Marlene Kairouz, said the program was a significant investment in preventing gambling harm in Victoria.

“The Prevention Partnership Program recognises the importance in preventing gambling harm before it happens, and of supporting vulnerable people and communities,” said Kairouz.

Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation Acting Chief Executive Officer Craig Swift said the foundation encouraged applications for projects which would test new ideas and identify collaboration between different organisations.

“Projects that trial new ways of preventing gambling harm not only provide direct benefits to the communities involved, but also build evidence about the best ways to prevent and treat gambling harm in the future,” he said.

Applications close on 14 March.