The Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) is calling for input from local communities and councils in the upcoming review of gaming machine entitlements.
According to MAV president, Councillor Bill McArthur, Victorians lost almost $70 million more on gaming machines last year compared to 2013-14 – the first increase on losses since 2008.
In a bid to reverse the trend, he said extensive consultation regarding the future distribution and operation of gaming machines was necessary.
“It seems the harm-minimisation approaches currently in place are no longer effective. More needs to be done to minimise the impact this industry is having on families and communities,” Cr McArthur said.
The MAV president added that the latest data reinforces the need for community members and councils to have a say in the review process.
“Councils and the MAV have been advocating for better protection for vulnerable communities from inappropriate placement of poker machines through the Enough Pokies campaign. This data adds to concerns the losses are in communities that can least afford it,” he said.
Two of the worst hit areas last year were Monash, with punters’ losses coming in at over $114 million, and Whittlesea, with pokie users losing $100 million.
Both suburbs are considered as low socio-economic regions. Problem gambling has been known to contribute to housing and job losses, financial stresses, mental health issues, relationship breakdowns and increased crime.
The review process will aim to ensure the best interests of the communities are finally given priority, with an opportunity to reduce the number of machines across the state.