The Victoria government in Australia is launching a pilot program aimed at providing personalized treatment and support services to individuals affected by gambling harm in the state. Developed in collaboration with support service Gambler’s Help, the program is funded through the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation.
Its primary goal is to enhance pathways for individuals seeking treatment for co-existing conditions, such as mental health issues, in addition to addressing gambling-related harm. By equipping allied health professionals with new screening tools and expanding access to training, the program aims to remove barriers and deliver more effective support to vulnerable individuals.
Tailored Treatment and Improved Pathways:
The newly introduced program seeks to empower allied health professionals to screen patients more effectively and determine the most suitable treatment options. By incorporating gambling-related questions into their assessments, practitioners can identify individuals in need of support and refer them to appropriate treatment and services. This approach ensures a tailored approach to treatment, acknowledging that gambling harm affects individuals differently and requires personalized interventions for long-term recovery. The pilot program is set to benefit patients seeking assistance by streamlining the process and facilitating access to the most relevant and effective treatments available.
Training and Collaboration:
To facilitate the successful implementation of the program, training will be provided to practitioners at various healthcare organizations, including Ballarat Community Health, Child and Family Services, and the Salvation Army Health Services. Dr. Jane Oakes, a clinical consultant, and Tony Clarkson, principal clinical advisor to the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation, will lead the training initiatives. The training will equip practitioners in the mental health, alcohol, and other drug sectors with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively address gambling harm and co-existing conditions. This collaborative effort between healthcare professionals and support organizations will enhance the capacity to identify and treat individuals vulnerable to gambling harm.
A Holistic Approach to Gambling Harm:
The pilot program recognizes the interconnectedness of gambling harm with other co-existing conditions, such as mental health issues and substance abuse. By training practitioners in these sectors, the program aims to provide comprehensive support to individuals who may be experiencing multiple challenges simultaneously. This holistic approach ensures that the treatment addresses the underlying causes and contributing factors associated with gambling harm. By collaborating across different disciplines, practitioners can deliver integrated care and support, improving the overall well-being and recovery outcomes of affected individuals.
Government Measures to Promote Responsible Gambling:
In addition to the tailored treatment program, the Victoria government has recently introduced a series of measures to protect consumers from harm in online gambling and promote responsible gambling practices. These measures will be implemented gradually, with the first rule taking effect on July 31st. It requires wagering service providers to provide monthly activity statements to all customers, with the option to request the previous month’s statement or access it through their online betting accounts. Other measures include ensuring responsible service of wagering training courses for relevant personnel, granting customers access to their betting account transaction records, and allowing the creation of new betting accounts without mandatory consent to direct marketing. These initiatives demonstrate the government’s commitment to creating a safer and more responsible gambling environment for individuals engaging in online wagering.
The Victoria government’s pilot program and the introduction of new measures underscore the commitment to addressing gambling harm and promoting responsible gambling practices. By implementing a tailored treatment program and expanding access to training, the government aims to provide individuals affected by gambling harm with the support they need to recover and regain control of their lives. The collaborative approach between healthcare professionals and support organizations ensures a holistic and comprehensive response to gambling harm and co-existing conditions. Together with the government’s efforts to enhance consumer protection in online gambling, these initiatives contribute to creating a safer and more responsible gambling landscape in Victoria.