New Zealand’s Minister for Mental Health, Matt Doocey, has announced a revamped national strategy aimed at preventing gambling-related harm, backed by a NZ$81 million (US$49.1 million) investment.
The initiative focuses on enhancing prevention, support, and treatment access, and includes plans to expand the specialist workforce by introducing 18 clinical internship placements, some of which may be filled by individuals in recovery themselves.
Doocey highlighted the personal and social impact of gambling, stating:
“One in five New Zealanders will be affected by gambling harm in their lifetime—either directly or through someone they know. This can have devastating effects not only on individuals, but also on their families and wider communities.”
The revised strategy was developed following a two-part consultation, which included direct input from those with lived experience of gambling harm, ensuring that the measures proposed reflect real community needs. A formal review is scheduled for 2025/26 to assess outcomes and adjust implementation where needed.
Key points of the new strategy include:
- Increased funding for prevention campaigns
- Improved access to treatment services
- Creation of internship opportunities to grow the gambling harm workforce
- A pathway for recovering problem gamblers to become qualified clinicians
This announcement comes shortly after the Rangitīkei District Council launched a local policy review and the Government rejected a NZ$150 million proposal for an online casino licence from The Tab—emphasizing the country’s cautious regulatory stance on gambling expansion.
The new strategy signals a long-term commitment to community well-being and responsible gambling, prioritizing health outcomes over commercial interests.
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