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A: The Real Stakes is a collaboration between three major community football leagues - the Victorian Amateur Football Association, Adelaide Footy League and Perth Football League - to address online sports gambling-related harm in our communities. Through information sessions, webinars and practical resources, we help clubs, and their members understand online sports gambling-related harm and support those affected. The Real Stakes is supported by lived experience experts through community engagement and research to provide practical education and support.
A: Every club has a role in safeguarding its members from online sports gambling-related harm. The Real Stakes is designed to raise awareness of the issues surrounding online sports gambling by fostering a healthy, positive environment and empowering your community to identify early warning signs and support those impacted. Together, we can make our club environments safer.
A: The National Gambling Helpline (1800 858 858) operates 24/7 with professional counsellors ready to help. They offer phone support, online chat, and can connect you with local services. Each state has dedicated online sports gambling support services providing free, confidential assistance for anyone affected by online sports gambling-related harm.
A: You can encourage them to contact the National Gambling Helpline (1800 858 858), share information about local support services, and suggest they talk with family and friends. Support services include online counselling, chat forums and face-to-face help. Most importantly, approach the conversation without judgement and let them know you care.
A: Watch for signs like spending more than intended on online sports gambling, borrowing money, being secretive about finances, or showing changes in behaviour or mood. You might notice someone becoming withdrawn, missing commitments, or struggling with work responsibilities.
A: The Real Stakes is completely free for all participants. Information sessions, webinars, online resources and support materials are provided at no cost to clubs or individuals. The Real Stakes is program is being delivered through a Strong and Resilient Communities (SARC) Activity Grant. This grant is an Australian Government initiative.
A: The Real Stakes provides three key types of sessions. Live information sessions for club leadership groups, which focus on fostering safer club environments; interactive workshops for coaches and player leadership groups, aimed at addressing online sports gambling related harm within clubs; and online sessions that bring together club communities to learn about support and prevention. The initiative also promotes BetStop - the free national self-exclusion service that blocks access to all licensed Australian gambling providers.
A: The Real Stakes is led by Elevate Strategic, working closely with the three leagues and their Wellbeing Project Coordinators. The initiative brings together leaders in public health and lived experience experts to deliver impactful messaging. This Strong and Resilient Communities (SARC) Activity - Inclusive Communities Grant project received grant funding from the Australian Government.
A: Our leagues play an important role in supporting the wellbeing of our players, coaches, volunteers and staff. Online sports gambling presents a serious risk, with participation more than doubling since 2010. Online sports gambling-related harm is often linked to other issues, such as mental health and excessive alcohol consumption. By addressing these problems through our community football networks, we can drive positive change and foster healthy, supportive club environments.
A: All affiliated clubs in the VAFA, AdFL and PFL will be invited to attend education sessions, starting February 2025. These include specific sessions for committee members, coaches and player leadership groups. Clubs can also host online information sessions in their clubrooms after training. Anyone in your club can register for free sessions and access online resources.
A: Clubs can take simple steps like replacing punters clubs, Dream team, turning off horse racing channels, displaying The Real Stakes resources, and choosing social activities away from gambling venues. These changes help create a more supportive environment while maintaining the social connection that makes community football special.