By Holly McGuinness
Brimbank’s spending on electronic gaming machines (EGMs) has dropped for the first time in two months by over $1 million as revealed in recent data.
According to the latest Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) data, the total amount lost by players using EGMs in Brimbank for May was $14.7 million and this figure continues to be a major concern for Brimbank council and Mayor Cr Jasmine Nguyen.
“Unfortunately electronic gaming machine gambling expenditure in Brimbank remains high.
“Council continues to call on the Victorian Government to reduce gaming venue operating hours,” said Mayor Nguyen
Brimbank still holds the highest losses to gambling on EGMs across the state, ahead of the City of Casey by $1.5 million, the average loss to EGMs in Victoria is $4.5 million, an unfortunate and stark difference to Brimbank’s numbers.
“Brimbank council has a number of programs in place to help community members that may be struggling with gambling.
“Reducing gambling in our community can have positive economic, social and health outcomes.
“Residents can go to our website to find resources to support them to reduce the harm from gambling at brimbank.vic.gov.au,” said Mayor Nguyen.
Associate Professor Charles Livingstone is the Head of gambling and social determinants unit at Monash University and he noted that it’s normal to have a small decline in spending throughout the year, however also mentioned it could be a result of increased cost of living.
“It may be a small ‘blip’ because of inflation, or it may indeed signal some progress on harm prevention. The longer term trend is needed before we can draw meaningful conclusions.
“If real cost of living exceeds wage rises, we may see a continuation of this trend. However, a recession, triggering unemployment, etc, may see increased spending as people become more stressed and anxious about their future,“ Professor Livingstone said.
