Responsible Gambling Awareness Week aims to Inform
This week, Victorians will be encouraged to make informed choices and responsible decisions whenever they gamble, as part of Responsible Gambling Awareness Week
Responsible Gambling Awareness Week is an initiative partnered by the gaming industry, community groups and the Victorian and local Governments which aims to raise awareness of the importance of gambling responsibly.
With more than 40 events and activities, the week will remind Victorians not to let gambling take over their life, to set a limit and not to exceed it, and to only take allocated amounts of money into gaming venues.
Minister for Gaming Michael O’Brien said the message was an important one for all Victorians.
“This is a unique public health initiative which reaches across many groups including sporting players, fans, staff and the Victorian community as a whole,” Mr O’Brien said.
“Whether you support an AFL team, or Melbourne Storm, Melbourne Heart, Melbourne Victory, or the Melbourne Rebels, the message is simple – if you’re having a flutter, know your limit,” he said.
Responsible Gambling Awareness Week also aims to provide knowledge and information about all forms of gambling to empower Victorians to make informed choices and responsible decisions whenever they test the odds.
The Minister also reiterated the Government’s plans to remove cash machines from gaming venues.
“The Victorian Government will also implement the legislative ban on ATMs in gaming venues, which takes effect on 1 July 2012, and implement voluntary pre-commitment on all gaming machines as soon as practicable,” Mr O’Brien said.
The week is packed with a range of events and opportunities statewide to promote the responsible gambling message, including thoroughbred and harness races, AFL Footy, and a range of business and community forums, arts, education and cultural events.
Responsible Gambling Awareness Week runs from 23 - 29 May 2011. For more information, visit www.gambleaware.vic.gov.au.