Tuesday, 11 August 2026

 Enver ERDOGAN (Northern Metropolitan – Minister for Finance, Minister for Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation, Minister for Government Services) (13:59): Today I rise to update the house on the Carroll Labor government’s ongoing commitment to reducing gambling harm across our state. We know that gambling harm can extend well beyond the individual, affecting families, relationships and communities. That is why, as minister, harm reduction and stronger regulation is a priority for me. We have already introduced and implemented nation-leading reforms – mandatory closure periods from 4 am to 10 am, lower load-up limits, reduced spin rates on new gaming machines – and we have already legislated a ban on static betting advertising within 150 metres of schools, on public transport and on our roads. Our focus is on ensuring a responsible gaming and wagering sector that minimises harm and protects communities, and making sure that the regulation keeps pace.

As part of my update today I am pleased to announce the successful recipients of the gambling harm research grants for 2026, Professor Nerilee Hing and Dr Amy Bestman. Our government is investing $281,000 in two research projects that will investigate the relationship between gambling addiction and family violence over the next two years. The funded research will examine the nature, extent, causes and impacts of economic abuse and other forms of family violence linked to unhealthy forms of gambling. These projects will help us test new approaches, strengthen prevention efforts and deliver better outcomes for Victorians experiencing gambling-related harm. Understanding how harm occurs is the first step to preventing it. These grants form part of the Carroll Labor government’s ongoing commitment to tackling gambling harm and ensuring our policies, programs and services are informed by the latest evidence.