MEDIA RELEASE

Wednesday, 10 September 2025

Rev Tim Costello to Address Gateway Health Event on Gaming and Gambling Risks

Gateway Health is pleased to announce a free community event featuring Rev Tim Costello AO, Chief Advocate for the Alliance for Gambling Reform, to be held in Wodonga on Thursday, 11 September 2025.

Rev Tim Costello, recognised nationally for his leadership in social justice and ethics, will engage the community on the growing risks associated with gaming and gambling. Rev Costello served as Chief Executive of World Vision Australia for 13 years and currently leads initiatives to reduce gambling harm. He also serves as Executive Director of Micah Australia and Chair of the Community Council of Australia.

The session, “From Gaming to Gambling: Hidden Risks”, is designed to support parents, carers, educators and youth workers in identifying gambling-like features within popular video games and equipping them to safeguard young people.

  • Recognising loot boxes, skins, and in-app purchases that mimic gambling
  • Identifying early warning signs of gambling-like behaviour
  • Establishing effective family rules and school-based strategies
  • Engaging with lived experience stories and expert Q&A

Rev Costello will share insights from over three decades of gambling reform advocacy, highlighting the impact of pokie machines, the threats posed by online gambling and the significance of community advocacy. Particular focus will be given to recent local developments, including Wodonga Council’s decision not to oppose the installation of 70 poker machines at the Huon Hill Hotel.

“The evidence is clear – poker machines cause significant harm to individuals, families and communities. Adding more pokies in Wodonga will only deepen this harm. I applaud Gateway Health for leading this important conversation about gambling risks, particularly those hidden in gaming, which is where harm can begin for young people,” Rev Costello said.

Gateway Health CEO, Trent Dean, notes that the event is timely for the region and forms part of an ongoing response to gambling harm.

“We know that gambling harm impacts mental health, family wellbeing and community safety. Decisions like the recent recent application for more pokies in Wodonga highlight the need for strong education and prevention efforts. Gateway Health, together with Upper Murray Family Care, is preparing a joint submission to the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) opposing the increase in pokies. This submission will include names and comments from a local petition that has already attracted more than 300 signatures – a clear sign that our community does not want to see further gambling harm,” Mr Dean said.

The event is free to attend, with registration essential.

Event Details

Support is available to anyone affected by gambling harm, including family members. Information and assistance can be accessed via Gateway Health’s Gambler’s Help service at gamblershelp@gatewayhealth.org.au.

Media Contact

Steven Bruni
Marketing & Communications Advisor, Gateway Health
0439 108 100
marketing@gatewayhealth.org.au
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