Gambling barriers break down

Gambling addiction in culturally diverse communities is to be tackled under a new program.
Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation chief executive Serge Sardo said Gamblers’ Help Services will bring together six agencies, including Springvale Indo-Chinese Mutual Assistance Association, to provide tailored, culturally-appropriate services.
The multilingual counselling and community education services will reach out to the Chinese, Vietnamese and Arabic-speaking communities.
“Many of these agencies have been part of their communities for 20 years or more, providing welfare and health support service,” he said.
“They understand that while the barriers to seeking help differ from culture to culture, some of the common factors include language barriers and stigma as well as cultural barriers like a lack of familiarity with the Western concept of counselling.”
Mr Sardo said research showed that the migrant experience could also increase a person’s risk of developing a problem with gambling.
“We know that social isolation and trauma are risk factors along with boredom, stress and depression,” he said.
The Australian Vietnamese Women’s Association, Chinese Gambling Concern, Arabic Welfare, Victorian Arabic Social Services and Multicultural Centre for Women’s Health are also involved.