Victorians at risk of gambling harm will be given more help through improved prevention programs and treatment services.
The Victorian Budget 2019/20 includes $153 million to help the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation tackle gambling harm prevention through better treatment, support and behaviour change programs – as well as initiatives to reduce stigma associated with gambling problems.
Through the Budget we are supporting victim survivors of family violence, with an additional $5.5 million to deliver an extra 10 full-time-equivalent specialist family violence financial counsellors.
The new financial counsellors will ensure that around 2,000 more victim survivors of family violence are assisted in recovering from economic abuse and provided the expert advice and advocacy they need to solve financial problems.
Recruitment of extra financial counsellors will commence mid-year and they will join the 11 full-time equivalent specialist family violence financial counsellors already helping victim survivors.
The Budget will also support Victorians living with a disability, who will soon have more control and choice over who supports them and where they live.
The Budget includes $4 million to ensure protection and support for people with specialist disability accommodation residency agreements by giving them greater choice and control over their lives and accommodation, free from harm and abuse.
More jobs and services will be created with $3.5 million to continue the Broadmeadows Town Centre and Frankston Station revitalisation projects. Planning works will make best use of the land around these central areas and improve transport connections in Frankston.
This will also include plans for affordable housing, identifying space for government services and for youth engagement programs.
As stated by Minister for Consumer Affairs, Gaming and Liquor Regulation, and Suburban Development Marlene Kairouz
“Gambling addiction can destroy lives – that’s why we’re investing even more to help prevent gambling harm and give at-risk Victorians more support.”
“More family violence counsellors will make a real difference to the lives of victim survivors by helping them to get expert advice on their financial issues.”
