Melbourne Monash Problem Gambling Research and Treatment Centre

A joint initiative of the University of Melbourne, Monash University and the Victorian Government.

The Problem Gambling Research and Treatment Centre (PGRTC) is conducting a Randomised Controlled Trial (RCT) exploring both the initial and ongoing effectiveness of psychological treatments for problem gambling in different types of people. If you are interested in learning more about the study, or wish to participate, more information can be found here.

The ‘Guideline for Screening, Assessment and Treatment in Problem Gambling' was officially launched by The Hon. Michael O'Brien, MP, Minister for Gaming, Government of Victoria, on Friday 25th November, 2011. This guideline was approved by the Chief Executive Officer of the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) on 11 August 2011. Please click here for more details and a copy of the guideline.

What is the Problem Gambling Research and Treatment Centre?

The Problem Gambling Research and Treatment Centre is a partnership between the Victorian Government Monash and Melbourne Universities. The Centre is funded under the Government's Problem Gambling Strategy, Taking Action on Problem Gambling.

As summarised in the policy document (p16):

The Government will allocate $4.2 million over five years to a joint venture between the University of Melbourne and Monash University to create a world-leading Centre for Excellence in Problem Gambling Treatment. The Centre will:

• conduct cutting-edge research into problem gambling treatment approaches
• develop new clinical practices
• train new and existing staff working in gambler's help services
• establish a postgraduate qualification in problem gambling treatment
• conduct a sustained epidemiological study of the various forms of gambling
• provide training on problem gambling to industry on a commercial basis.

The Centre grows out of a strong existing inter-University gambling research program with a decade of high level multi-disciplinary and collaborative performance in the area of gambling research, service design and service evaluation

Problem gambling has negative effects on those experiencing it and their partners, children and families. As practice researchers we are dedicated to ensuring that the best preventive, harm reducing and curative approaches are devised and made available to people affected by problem gambling. We are devotees of evidence based and excellent practice and our research is premised upon making a difference.

Professional Development Seminar Series

The PGRTC is offering a professional development series is intended for staff, managers, and policy makers involved in the design and delivery of problem gambling services as well as gaming industry staff and covers topics from families and problem gambling to clinical guidelines. Please see here for the program.