The New Zealand government is investing NZ$81 million (approx €42.8 million) to refresh its Strategy to Prevent and Minimise Gambling Harm.
The country’s minister for mental health, Matt Doocey, announced the increased investment as part of a refresh of the country’s gambling harm prevention strategy, which must be updated every three years, as per New Zealand’s 2003 Gambling Act.
Doocey said the funding will be used to improve access to support for players experiencing gambling-related harm by creating up to 18 additional clinical internship places. These interns will work closely with experienced clinicians to develop their skills in a clinical setting.
Services provided as part of the strategy will be funded through the new Problem Gambling Levy Regulations, paid by non-casino gaming machine operators, casinos, TAB NZ, and Lotto NZ.
The government is already investigating how online casino operators can be made to contribute to the levy.
“One in five New Zealanders will be affected by gambling harm in their lifetime, either directly or through someone they know. This can have devastating effects not only on individuals, but also on their families and wider communities,” said Doocey.
“I want to thank those who shared their experiences with us. You’ve helped ensure this strategy is reflective of real-life experiences and have helped to ground the strategy with a strong understanding of what support works best for you and our communities.”