Community to Benefit from New Gambling Study
The latest findings from the Victorian Gambling Study will help the government develop more effective prevention, early intervention and treatment programs to help those affected by problem gambling.
The three-year ongoing study explores gambling from a community and public health viewpoint, by following the same group of Victorian adults over three years to explore their health, wellbeing and gambling behaviours. The study also surveys non-gamblers.
According to Minister for Gaming Michael O'Brien, the latest findings show that gambling habits and behaviours change over time.
Almost six per cent of participants who gamble increased their risk category, moving to the low, moderate or problem gambling categories. Meanwhile, 4.3 per cent moved away from those risk categories to a lower-risk status.
“This is a clear indication that, while the study shows not all problem gamblers remain problem gamblers, for some, problem gambling might be a longer-term feature of their life,” Mr O'Brien said.
“Research adds to our understanding of gambling, in particular problem gambling, and allows us to make informed decisions about gambling policy and legislation.”
New programs will further expand the work of the recently established Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation – formed to reduce problem gambling, encourage responsible gambling and tackle serious social problems caused by problem gambling.
For more information on the study, visit the Victorian Gambling Study website.