Gambling service gets $684,000

The Peninsula Community Centre's problem gambling counselling service will receive more than $684,000 funding over the next four years.

The announcement of the funding coincides with Responsible Gambling Awareness Week to be held during May 12 to 18.

Peninsula Community Centre has been guaranteed funding over the next four years from the Responsible Gambling Fund to help problem gamblers and their families on the Peninsula, according to Member for Gosford Ms Marie Andrews.

"This is the first time that four-year funding contracts have been offered to NSW Government problem gambling counselling services," Ms Andrews said.

"This ensures that the services can have certainty to plan for the future to ensure adequate staffing and service levels."

Ms Andrews said the funding would assist with rising costs associated with staff, and goods and services tax.

"This funding allocation follows a comprehensive and rigorous application and assessment process by an Independent Grants Assessment Committee and the Trustees of the Responsible Gambling Fund," Ms Andrews said.

Ms Andrews said the funding would ensure those individuals and families who needed help would have access to a free and confidential service.

She said that research showed that face-to-face counselling was very effective, and that more than 80 per cent of people who had face-to-face counselling still found it helped after six months.

Problem gamblers can access the counselling service through the G-Line 24-hour telephone service on 1800 633 635.

Press release, 12 May 2008 Marie Andrews, Member for Gosford