Monash Council adopted its refreshed Public Health Approach to Gambling Harm Policy, at its May 2026 Council meeting. The policy outlines how we will build on our efforts and advocacy to reduce the impacts of gambling harm across the municipality.

Gambling harm is not limited to financial harm and may negatively impact physical and mental health as well as relationships. Gambling harm can impact not just the person gambling but their family, friends, employer and community.

In 2024/25, $126 million was lost to electronic gambling machines (pokies) in Monash. This places Monash in the top 10 local government areas for losses due to gambling on pokies in Victoria.

We recognise gambling harm can be a difficult topic. If you need support or someone to talk to about gambling harm you can contact Gamblers Help or 1800RESPECT for free 24/7 support.

We have updated our Policy to:

  • Make it easier to read

    • The background and context is a standalone document.
    • Clearer scope on gambling activities.
    • Updated language based on evidence and legislative changes.

  • Include new and relevant evidence

    • Research and data was updated to include:
      • impact of the cost of living on people's experiences of gambling harm.
      • identifying cohorts of community most at risk of gambling harm to include young people, older women, people experiencing financial hardship and people from non-English speaking backgrounds.

  • Support communities

    • Provide more information and education on gambling harm.
    • Targeted communication to key cohorts at risk of gambling harm.
    • Work with community groups and sports clubs to implement gambling harm prevention.

  • Continue advocating

    • Continue to advocate to State and Federal governments to take steps towards reducing gambling harm.

Timeline

  • Timeline item 1 - complete

    Community consultation

    11 February - 15 March 2026

  • Timeline item 2 - complete

    Review of feedback and finalise draft policy

    Late March 2026

  • Timeline item 3 - complete

    Presentation of final policy to Council for endorsement

    May 2026

  • Timeline item 4 - complete

    Report back to community

    By June 2026

Monash City Council is committed to protecting personal information provided by you in accordance with the principles of the Victorian Privacy & Data Protection Act 2014.

The information you provide will be used to assist Council staff to determine the community needs and priorities to inform this project.

You may access information you have provided to Council and make corrections if you believe that information is incorrect. For further information including Council’s information privacy policy, visit www.monash.vic.gov.au

If you or someone you know is being impacted by gambling, you can contact:

  • Gamblers Help if you are experiencing harm from gambling on 1800 858 858
  • 1800RESPECT for support with family violence on 1800 737 732

Both services are free and offer 24/7 support.