The Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) is reviewing an application by Huon Hill Club Ltd to introduce 70 new electronic gaming machines at Club Wodonga, located at 48 Reid Street, Wodonga. This petition urges the VGCCC to decline this proposal. The Wodonga and Albury regions are already overwhelmed with poker machines, leading to devastating financial consequences for our community.

In the 2023–24 period, both Wodonga and Albury communities suffered a combined loss of over $100 million due to poker machines. This financial strain affects families, local businesses, and the overall well-being of residents. The social and economic costs of gambling outweigh any potential benefits of additional pokies in the area.

The rate of poker machines in Albury-Wodonga is alarmingly high compared to other regions; this saturation exacerbates problem gambling and increases financial distress among vulnerable individuals. Adding more machines would only heighten these issues, leading to more financial hardship and social problems in our community.

Local governments and community organisations have long fought to minimise the harm caused by problem gambling. Allowing more pokies would undermine these efforts and contradict the community's aims to promote a healthier, more sustainable future for Wodonga.

By refusing the Huon Hill Club's application, the VGCCC would protect the interests and well-being of our community. The focus should be on supporting initiatives that help reduce gambling-related harm, providing support services for affected families, and promoting alternative local entertainment options that do not involve gambling.

Protect our community from further harm and voice your opposition to this proposal. Sign this petition in support of Gateway Health’s submission demanding the VGCCC reject the installation of 70 new pokies at Club Wodonga.