The ACT Government says its new gambling support service will serve as a 'one-stop-shop' for problem gamblers and their families.The Government has announced Mission Australia will run the service, providing help for people already struggling with problem gambling as well as running proactive services to help those at risk of developing an addiction.
It is due to be up and running next month.
Economic Development Minister Andrew Barr says it is a unique, nation-leading arrangement.
"Mission Australia will combine their experience in problem gambling services with the many other services they provide including financial counselling, support services for disadvantaged families and youth, support services for relationships, domestic violence, drug and alcohol misuse, mental illness, housing," he said.
Mr Barr says the service will include face-to-face, phone, email and online contact with clients.
He says Mission Australia will also work with the Australian National University, the ACT Gambling and Racing Commission and industry stakeholders to undertake research on the causes and effective treatment of problem gambling.
Mr Barr says it is part of the Government's broader plan to tackle problem gambling.
"That encompass everything from assistance for those who have demonstrated need and perhaps those who we haven't been reaching with previous assistance models, through to some more direct action in relation to the number of poker machines in the Territory, ATM withdrawal limits and the national work around precommitment," he said.
The service is being funded by a 0.6 per cent levy on gambling revenue, an idea initiated by an ACT Greens bill.
Mission Australia's Leonie Green says it will be a diverse program.
"Not only will we be offering financial and gambling counselling services but we will be also providing training for other service providers," she said.
"We'll be able to provide therapeutic services to families and individuals so that they can start looking and addressing all of the other issues. We'll be working in schools raising awareness of gambling."
Story originally published 7 June 2011 at ABC.net.au
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