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New program set to support VAFA community
Introducing The Real Stakes – a gambling harm reduction program
The Real Stakes is a community footy program developed by the community for community footy – we aim to tackle the real harm that online sports and racing betting can cause.
Through this program, the Victorian Amateur Football Association will give our clubs and their people the practical tools and support needed to identify gambling harm, learn how to prevent it, and understand how to support a mate – or themselves.
Launching in February 2025, The Real Stakes program has been created by people who love the game, for those who want to protect it.
Participation is free as this program is being delivered through a Strong and Resilient Communities (SARC) Activity – Inclusive Communities Grant program. This grant is an Australian Government initiative.
How it works:
Through a series of information sessions and webinars, The Real Stakes program will:
- Help you learn how the gambling industry profits from risky behaviours, using tactics designed to keep you betting
- Understand gambling harm is a real issue before it even becomes a problem
- Give you the opportunity to hear from those who have experienced the impacts of gambling harm and gain insights from their journeys to understand the signs and find support
- Share practical tools to help you help a mate, reduce the chance of gambling harm in your club and create a culture of support and awareness
- Connect you with support services – judgement free support is available!
Save the date!
More information on the program will be released in February 2025. Please note the below dates of the information sessions and webinars.
| Date | Time | Format | Who should attend |
| Saturday, 8 Feb | 7:30am – 2:00pm | Club Conference | Club Presidents and leaders |
| Monday, 17 Feb | 6.30pm – 8.00pm | Information Session | Coaches and players |
| Tuesday, 18 Feb | 6.30pm – 8.00pm | Information Session | Coaches and players |
| Wednesday, 19 Feb | 6.30pm – 8.00pm | Information Session | Coaches and players |
| Thursday, 20 Feb | 6.30pm – 8.00pm | Information Session | Women’s coaches and players |
| Thursday, 10 Apr | 7.30pm – 9.00pm | Webinar | Everyone |
| Wednesday, 30 Apr | 7.30pm – 9.00pm | Webinar | Everyone |
| Wednesday, 7 May | 7.30pm – 9.00pm | Webinar | Everyone |
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