By Esther Lauaki
Sunbury and Bulla residents can share their thoughts on gambling in their community as Hume council reviews its responsible gaming policy.
Residents are invited to share their opinions and experiences of gambling at a consultation session on September 18.
The council’s policy assists in its responses to the Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation on gaming applications in Hume and neighbouring municipalities, as well as encouraging community awareness of the potential impacts of gaming.
Hume gamblers lost $109.6 million on gaming machines in the past financial year – a 3.6 per cent increase on the $105.8 million lost the previous year.
Hume mayor Geoff Porter said the council recognised that gambling is a legal, recreational activity but when gambling becomes problematic it affects the broader community.
“Council is committed to raising our communities’ awareness of the potential harms associated with gambling and working with the state government to see that gambling in our community is suitably regulated now and into the future,” Cr Porter said.
The community meeting will be held on September 18 between 6.30pm and 8.30pm at Sunbury Aquatic and Leisure Centre, 20 Ligar Street, Sunbury.
Details: hume.vic.gov.au/yoursay
