Premier

New First Nations Gambling Harm Program

20 August 2021

The Victorian Government is prioritising the needs of young First Nations people, launching Australia’s first youth specific First Nations Gambling Awareness program on Wadawurrung Country.

Aboriginal-owned organisation Strong Brother Strong Sister has been selected to deliver the Djilang Gambling Awareness Program, which will provide support to young people affected by their own or their family’s gambling activities.

The program will receive $250,000 over 15 months to help young Wadawurrung people pursue self-determination through social, emotional, and health and wellbeing measures, with a key focus on minimising gambling harm.

Strong Brother Strong Sister is one hundred per cent Aboriginal youth-led and operated and was selected for its experience working with young people.

The organisation will engage with Elders, families, schools, sporting clubs, child protection, corrections, and other services throughout the Geelong region to provide support to individuals or families experiencing gambling-related harm.

The program will operate alongside the organisation’s existing programs, which have supported more than 2,000 First Nations young people in the Geelong community since 2017, including one-on-one mentoring and youth groups.

Quote attributable to Minister for Gaming and Liquor Regulation Melissa Horne

“We take reducing gambling-related harm seriously and will continue to support programs that help young people break the cycle and get back on track.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Gabrielle Williams

”The Djilang Gambling Awareness Program will ensure young people affected by gambling harm can access culturally safe and locally based holistic support.”

Quote attributable to Member for Geelong Christine Couzens

“This important initiative will enable Strong Brother Strong Sister to continue their great work with young people, supporting local Aboriginal youth who are at risk of gambling harm.”

Quote attributable to Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation CEO Shane Lucas

“This program has been created in line with the principles of Aboriginal self-determination, which is a very important step for everyone involved.”

Quote attributable to Strong Brother Strong Sister CEO Cormach Evans

“The Djilang Gambling Awareness Program will focus on supporting young people and provide a different layer of support – not just for this generation and community, but the whole next generation as well. “

Reviewed 20 August 2021

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