By Matthew Sims
Daily gambling expenditure across Hobsons Bay electronic gaming machines [EGMs] increased by 1.5 per cent in May compared to losses experienced during April.
According to Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) data, $4.075 million was spent on EGMs in Hobsons Bay during May, while the expenditure in April was $3.884 million.
In terms of daily figures, Hobsons Bay gamblers lost $131,438 per day in May, while they lost $129,477 in April.
A Hobsons Bay council spokesperson said the council offered a range of facilities which provide safe alternatives to gaming venues.
“Council’s efforts to prevent and reduce harm are guided by our Problem Gambling on Electronic Gaming Machines Policy Statement, which articulates a range of principles and commitments to manage and minimise the negative impacts of gambling on our community,” the spokesperson said.
“Council is also a ‘Leadership Council’ with the Alliance for Gambling Reform, which campaigns for reforms to the gambling industry.”
Maribyrnong experienced a small decrease in EGM expenditure, with a loss of $5.695 million in May, which highlighted a small drop compared to the $5.749 million spent in April.
In terms of daily figures, Maribyrnong gamblers saw a 4.1 per cent drop in daily expenditure – from $191,622 in April to $183,726 in May.
Maribyrnong mayor Anthony Tran said the council had endorsed its Reducing Harm from Gambling Policy and Action Plan at its June meeting to outline its advocacy measures against gambling harm.
“Gambling has impacts extending beyond financial losses to health and social issues such as depression, family violence and other criminal activities,” he said.
“It’s positive to see the decline of money being lost in the City of Maribyrnong from gambling – this means less gambling and more money staying in the pockets of residents, allowing them to spend it on essentials to support their own health and wellbeing, and that of their families.”
