In July, Western Victorians lost $338,000 a day on poker machines. Families are paying a heavy toll

In Western Victoria, millions of dollars are being lost every month on poker machines – but the damage isn’t only financial, with studies pointing to the link between gambling and domestic violence.

The Australian Gambling Research Centre (AGRC) latest report found an estimated 3.1 million Australian adults - around 15 per cent of the population - experienced gambling-related harms in 2024. These included stress, guilt, borrowing money, selling belongings or chasing losses.

And closer to home, data from the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission showed steep losses in July this year - nearly $6 million in Ballarat, $2.1 million in Warrnambool, $1.4 million in Glenelg and just over $1 million in Colac Otway.

It totals about $10.5 million lost in 31 days, at an average of $338,000 a day.

Meli, a not-for-profit organisation offering help for gambling and family violence support across Barwon and the South West, supported 390 people last financial year. 

Therapeutic services manager Betti Chapelle said the impacts of gambling often spilled into family relationships and, in some cases, led to violence.

“Determining the extent to which gambling drives family violence is complex,” she told the Brolga. “While gambling may not directly cause family violence, research shows there are strong associations between the two.”

Chapelle also said “gambling-related harm is closely linked to financial abuse”. 

“Individuals experiencing gambling issues may pressure their partners to hand over money or incur debt in their partner’s name. This deepens financial dependence and can make it harder for someone to leave an unsafe situation.”

She added that digital platforms are worsening risks: “Online gambling platforms can exacerbate these risks. Their accessibility and anonymity often enable compulsive gambling, while limiting opportunities for early intervention. Many platforms lack robust safeguards to prevent financial abuse or coercive use.”

Chapelle also noted that for some victim-survivors, gambling venues can provide a short-term escape.

“A study by the Australian Institute of Family Studies found that nearly 16 per cent of women affected by intimate partner violence had used these venues to escape violence at home,” she said. 

“While not a long-term solution, these spaces can offer temporary relief and, in some cases, access to help.”

Meli continues to work alongside organisations such as Emma House to ensure people affected by both gambling and family violence can access coordinated support.

If you or someone you know is experiencing gambling harm or family violence, help is available 24/7 by calling 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or Gambler’s Help on 1800 858 858.

In Western Victoria, Meli, Sexual Assault and Family Violence Centre, Emma House, Orange Door, and Child and Family Services Ballarat are also available to provide resources and support.