Problem Gambling in Monash

The Monash community lost $121,199,336.56 through pokies (Electronic Gaming Machines or EGMs) in the 2009/10 financial year, the second highest in Victoria. Monash hosts the highest number of pokies per local government area in the state (1,000), and the third highest number of venues (15).

The spread of pokies and venues across the City of Monash is disproportionately weighted towards our suburbs of least advantage, including Clayton, Oakleigh, Mulgrave and Ashwood.

This is concerning because the prevalence of problem gambling is related to the degree of accessibility to gambling, particularly pokies (P.C., 1999).

On average 60% of money lost on pokies is lost by moderate risk and problem gamblers (P.C., 2010). Problem gamblers are also at risk of increases in family breakdown, financial stress and domestic violence as well as links to alcohol and drug abuse and crime.

Council works in partnership with the Monash Responsible Gambling Taskforce to address problem gambling in the municipality.

To speak to someone about your gambling concerns call 1800 858 858 or for an instant online response go to www.gamblinghelponline.org.au

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Last updated: 29 May 2011

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