New Zealand aims to cut gambling harm

The New Zealand government said it has invested $76m (US$48m) on a strategy to minimise harm from gambling.

“Gambling harm is a serious public health issue and can have a devastating effect on the wellbeing of individuals and communities,” it said in a statement. “One in five New Zealanders will experience gambling harm in their lives, or know someone close who does.”

The investment will go towards training pathways to enable a more skilled and diverse workforce, including more peer and cultural support workers, new and expanded digital services and supports, education initiatives to reduce harm to young people and a de-stigmatisation initiative to help change the conversation around gambling harm and encourage people to seek help.

It will also include better support for vulnerable communities, including Maori, Pacific and Asian people.

Source: Asia Gaming Brief