Communities experiencing financial stress and disadvantage are often disproportionately affected by gambling harm. In its submission to the Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation, South East Monash Legal Service opposed the proposed gaming venue at the Koo Wee Rup Royal Hotel, arguing that increased access to electronic gaming machines would have a detrimental social and economic impact on the local community.
The submission highlighted the heightened risks faced by low-income households, migrants, refugees, people seeking asylum and other vulnerable groups, and emphasised the importance of preventing gambling-related harm before it occurs.
