Monash Council has adopted a refreshed Public Health Approach to Gambling Harm Policy, which outlines how we will build on our efforts and advocacy to reduce the impacts of gambling harm across the municipality.

The refreshed policy reaffirms our commitment to community organisations and local sporting clubs to help them reduce reliance on gambling-based fundraising and promote healthier alternatives.

New research on the impacts cost-of-living pressures on people's experiences of gambling harm has been included, and cohorts most at risk have been expanded to include young people, older women, people experiencing financial hardship and those from non-English speaking backgrounds.

Now easier to read, the policy is clearer in its scope of gambling activities with language that meets best practice and legislative requirements. It also outlines improved access to information and education on gambling harm, while strengthening Council’s work with vulnerable groups.

Feedback received showed majority of respondents were supportive of Council’s approach to gambling harm prevention and advocacy commitments.

Recommended actions included strengthening the draft policy to:

• Provide clearer guidance for sporting clubs and community groups on receiving donations from gambling entities, and
• Explore free or low-cost social spaces that provide alternatives to gambling and finding opportunities to connect parts of the community to gambling help organisations like Gamblers Help.

We know gambling harm goes far beyond financial loss. It can impact mental and physical health, relationships, employment and overall wellbeing — with flow-on effects for families, friends and the wider community.

In 2024–25, electronic gambling machine (EGM) losses in Monash reached $126 million, placing Monash among the top 10 local government areas in Victoria for pokies losses.

Council has a longstanding commitment to prevent gambling harm and recognises its role and responsibility is to continue to advocate to State and Federal governments to take steps towards further reducing gambling harm.