On Wednesday 19 November 2025, Cafs hosted a powerful community event to raise awareness of gambling harm and inspire local organisations to take action. We were privileged to hear from Rev Tim Costello AO, Chief Advocate for the Alliance for Gambling Reform, and Dan Irwin, who courageously shared his lived experience of gambling addiction and recovery. Their insights reminded us that gambling harm is not just an individual issue; it’s a community issue.
Ballarat residents lose $1.2 million every week on poker machines, and Victoria’s gambling losses reached $7.39 billion in 2024–25. These numbers represent real people, families, and communities impacted by financial stress, mental health challenges, and relationship breakdowns.
These conversations were about more than awareness; they were about action. We need state and federal government, local organisations, and community leaders to work together to reduce harm and advocate for systemic change.
Thank you to all our community changemakers who attended and committed to being part of the solution. Let’s keep this momentum going and ensure gambling harm is treated as the public health crisis it truly is.
