Raising awareness of gambling harm in East Arnhem
Did you know online casino gambling apps are illegal in Australia? While people may be able to deposit money and play these games, they cannot legally access any winnings. Many people are losing hundreds of dollars each week through these apps, with the money going overseas.
To help communities better understand the risks and impacts of online gambling, the East Arnhem Money Support Hub has been working with local partners across the region to deliver gambling harm awareness workshops.
A highlight of the project was collaborating with respected Yolŋu community members, who provided cultural guidance, interpretation and invaluable support throughout the workshops.
Community workshops
Financial Counsellor Julie Bell, Financial Capability Worker Rachel Wolfardt, and Financial Capability Worker Pradeep Kaur travelled to Ramingining, Minjilang and Galiwin’ku. They worked alongside local Elder and ALPA Aboriginal Engagement Worker Norman Daymarringu, whose support was instrumental in bringing community members together and helping communicate important messages about the risks of online gambling.
Financial Counsellor Joy Mason and Financial Capability Worker Rachel Wolfardt travelled to Gapuwiyak and Milingimbi with local Elder Ian Gumbula. Ian played a key role in engaging community members and helping ensure workshop messages were delivered in a culturally appropriate way.
Although Minjilang falls within West Arnhem and outside Anglicare NT’s service area, the team was pleased to provide support and education to community members, reinforcing the importance of raising awareness about gambling harm wherever opportunities arise.
The workshops demonstrated the value of strong partnerships, culturally appropriate communication and community-led engagement in helping people make informed financial decisions and access support when needed.
Yaka Ding Ding video
Working with ALPA, Anglicare NT contributed to the development of Yaka Ding Ding, an educational animation and song in both Yolŋu Matha and English. The resource highlights the impacts online gambling can have on individuals, families and communities.
Community consultation shaped the campaign’s format, visual style and messaging. These discussions revealed that many people did not fully understand how online gambling apps and websites operate or the effects they can have on people’s lives.
Through the consultations, community members learned about their rights, how these apps and websites operate, the risks of sharing banking details, and how money lost through gambling leaves the community.
The workshops also provided a safe space for people to share personal experiences, reduce feelings of shame and guilt associated with gambling, and explore healthier alternatives.
Importantly, they encouraged people to seek support for themselves or family members by connecting with Anglicare NT to discuss gambling-related and financial concerns.
Money Support Hub staff Julie Bell (right) and Rachel Wolfardt with Elder and ALPA Aboriginal Engagement Worker Norman Daymarringu delivering gambling awareness workshops in Minjilang.
