New Zealand Commits $81 Million to Updated Gambling Harm Strategy
New Zealand’s Government has launched an updated national strategy to reduce gambling harm, backed by more than $81 million in targeted funding. The plan introduces new measures for treatment, early intervention, and workforce expansion, with a formal review set for 2025/26.
Government Expands Support to Address Gambling Harm
Minister for Mental Health Matt Doocey has announced a refreshed Strategy to Prevent and Minimise Gambling Harm, which includes a significant increase in funding and a range of new initiatives aimed at improving the country’s response to gambling-related issues.
“The updated strategy includes a targeted investment of over $81 million to improve access to support, strengthen prevention and early intervention and reduce the impact of gambling-related harm across New Zealand.”
Review Mechanism to Ensure Accountability
To measure effectiveness, the strategy includes a formal independent review scheduled for the 2025/26 financial year. This will assess which measures are delivering results and where improvements are needed.
“We know that simply announcing strategies isn’t enough to make a material difference. We want New Zealanders to see real change and make progress, that is why as part of this strategy we’ve built in an independent review in 2025/26 to track what’s working, and what’s not.”
Focus on Treatment, Prevention, and Early Intervention
The strategy prioritizes timely and effective support for individuals, families, and communities. Investment areas include increased access to treatment services, improved prevention campaigns, and strengthened early intervention programs.
Recognizing workforce shortages as a key barrier, the Government plans to add up to 18 new clinical internship placements. These roles will provide practical, supervised experience for those entering the gambling harm support field.
“It is expected these interns will be supported to develop gambling harm expertise by working closely with a supervisor in a clinical setting. This approach is necessary to bridge the gap between education and work and will give interns the practical experience needed to help people affected by gambling harm,” said Mr Doocey.
Funded by Industry Contributions
The program will be financed through the new Problem Gambling Levy Regulations. These apply to non-casino gaming machine operators, casinos, TAB NZ, and Lotto NZ. Work is ongoing to determine how online casino operators will contribute under future regulation. The strategy was developed following a two-stage public consultation, with strong input from individuals with lived experience.
“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.”