Public Health Approach to Gambling

Overview

The City of Monash Public Health Approach to Gambling Harm Policy was adopted by Council at the 26 May 2026 Council meeting.

About the policy

Monash Council is committed to supporting its community to lead healthy, happy and thriving lives.

As the closest level of government to our community, we know we have an important role to play in promoting and protecting the health and wellbeing of our residents.

The intention of this policy is articulate Council’s commitment to the reduction of harm from gambling and continue the standing of Monash as a leader and change-agent on this public health issue within the local government sector.

Read the Monash Public Health Approach to Gambling Harm Policy(PDF, 3MB)

What the policy says

This Policy states in detail Monash Council’s public health position to gambling, which will continue to be enacted through planning, advocacy, resourcing and communication.

The Policy articulates how Monash Council will:

Support initiatives that aim to reduce gambling harm within the City of Monash through education and advocacy.
Not provide support or resources to community groups or clubs which promote gambling, in particular EGM (pokie machine) venues, sports betting, and online gambling.
Only allow access to Council-owned land and facilities for groups or clubs adhering to the policy.
Advocate for regulatory reform of the gambling industry including reduced opening hours, maximum $1 bet limits (on pokies) and the elimination of sports betting advertising.