In November 2000, COAG requested the MCG to develop a national framework on problem gambling to be implemented primarily by State and Territory Governments, and based on four central themes:
- prevention
- early intervention and continuing support
- building effective partnerships
- national research and evaluation.
In 2004, a four-year national framework on problem gambling was approved. The aim of the framework is to minimise the negative consequences of problem gambling to individuals, families and the community through a national approach.
The national framework on problem gambling is built upon the following
principles:
- The community has a right to accurate and balanced information on gambling, on the risks associated with gambling, and on available support services.
- Gamblers, the gambling industry, the community, support service providers, State, Territory and Federal governments all share the responsibility for minimising the harm associated with problem gambling.
- While State and Territory governments are responsible for ensuring regulatory frameworks minimise problem gambling, harm minimisation measures can be enhanced when developed and implemented through collaborative partnerships that build on current best practice.
- Research and evaluation are essential to ensure that initiatives are likely to minimise problem gambling without unintended negative consequences for the community.
The
key focus areas, objectives and strategies of the framework are:
- Public Awareness, Education and Training - to promote a greater understanding of the nature of the gambling product, the potential for harm and the availability of help and support.
- Responsible Gambling Environments - to minimise the likelihood of recreational gamblers developing problem gambling behaviours.
- Intervention, Counselling and Support Services - to enhance problem gambling support and treatment services that are effective, accessible and culturally appropriate.
- National Research and Data Collection - to inform the implementation and further development of the national framework and its strategies.
Responses to the national framework have now been largely implemented by the States and Territories. Over the past five years, States and Territories have spent more than $200 million on responsible gambling and harm minimisation measures, such as telephone and face-to-face counselling services, public awareness and education campaigns, research, partnerships with community groups and support for problem gamblers and their families.