Greater Shepparton City Council endorsed a partnership with The Alliance for Gambling Reform at Tuesday's Council Meeting to tackle the high rate of gambling in the municipality.
Annual expenditure on electronic gaming machines in Greater Shepparton is higher than state and regional Victorian averages.
Mayor, Councillor Kim O'Keeffe said the Greater Shepparton Public Health Advisory Committee (PHWAC) recognised we needed to reduce the harm caused by gambling in Greater Shepparton.
"With a higher average than the rest of the state it is important we explore ways to do this. Gambling harm is a key focus area for the PHWAC and is included in the Greater Shepparton Public Health Strategic Plan 2018 – 2028," said Cr O'Keeffe.
"The devastating effect of gambling affects the gambler, their families, their employment and their health. Anything Council can do to support this initiative will be worthwhile."
The Alliance for Gambling Reform is a collaboration of organisations with a shared concern about the harmful aspects of gambling and its normalisation in Australian culture. They campaign for reforms of the gambling industry that reduce the harm it causes, particularly to local communities.
Council Plan
This action addresses the objectives with the Community Leadership and the Social Responsibility and Wellbeing themes of the Council Plan 2021-25.
Image: Keenan Constance
