VGCCC refuses Huon Hill pokies application, a community win for Wodonga during Gambling Harm Awareness Week

Gateway Health has welcomed the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission’s (VGCCC) decision to refuse an application by Huon Hill Club Limited to establish a new gaming venue with 70 poker machines at 48 Reid Street, Wodonga.

The VGCCC determined that it was not satisfied the proposed venue would have a non-detrimental net socio-economic impact on the local community, as required under section 3.3.8(1) of the Gambling Regulation Act 2003.

The timing of the decision handed down during Gambling Harm Awareness Week (27 October to 2 November) highlights the importance of continued community vigilance and advocacy to prevent gambling-related harm. This week encourages all Victorians to talk more openly about gambling, its impact, and how communities can work together to reduce harm.

Gateway Health worked closely with Upper Murray Family Care, the Alliance for Gambling Reform, community members, and petition supporters, along with other local organisations, to oppose the proposal. Strong community submissions, public advocacy, and coordinated partnerships were instrumental in demonstrating the risks associated with further gambling expansion in Wodonga.

Gateway Health CEO Trent Dean said that the outcome reflected both the power of local collaboration and a shared understanding that reducing harm must take precedence over gambling revenue.

Poker machines are recognised as one of the most harmful forms of gambling in Australia, with established links to mental health challenges, family and financial stress, and community disadvantage. Evidence consistently shows that increasing access to pokies results in greater harm, while limiting availability helps protect those most at risk.

By preventing the introduction of another 70 machines, this decision will help keep more local income circulating within the community and reduce the social and health impacts of gambling.

Gateway Health’s Gambler’s Help program continues to provide confidential counselling, community education, and prevention initiatives across north-east Victoria. The organisation will maintain its partnerships with local agencies to strengthen community resilience and reduce gambling harm.

The VGCCC’s decision stands as a powerful example of effective, evidence-based community advocacy, and a timely reminder, during Gambling Harm Awareness Week, that prevention works best when communities act together.

ENDS