Consumer Voice Project - SA

People who have overcome the affects of problem gambling are trained and supported to share their personal stories on how problem gambling affected them.

During 1994-95 I became hooked on the pokies. I tried to stop but I couldn’t. I tried seeing a counsellor which helped but didn’t solve my problem. After 11 years of gambling I had to change or I was headed for serious trouble. I heard about the Flinders gambling therapy program and I began in early 2004 and haven’t gambled since. I have now had success in dealing with some of the issues which have led to alcoholism, depression and gambling addiction. The Consumer Voice Project has given me self-confidence in talking about private feelings; it has allowed me to empathise with others having to cope with their own or others problem gambling.
… Alan

My ‘adventure’ began three years ago when I found myself severely affected by my husband’s problem gambling. I was heartbroken, separated, broke, depressed and had nothing to look forward to. 

Three years ago I thought my life was over. With the support of Relationship Australia's Gambling Help service I began an amazing journey of self discovery and self realisation. In 2005, I was invited to participate in the Consumer Voice Project where I had the chance to share my experiences with other members of our society. I have found new friends, new colleagues and never-ending support.
… Anna

Anyone who has been affected by problem gambling, whether directly or indirectly, can become a Consumer Voice speaker. 

Becoming a speaker

As a Consumer Voice speaker you will:

• Be professionally trained by educators and counsellors
• Be supported to develop your own story about the effects of problem gambling
• Learn skills in presenting to a range of audiences
• Learn useful ways to deal with difficult questions.

You can also gain accredited training through the project as modules towards the Certificate IV in Community Services.

When you have finished the training, you will be supported to share your story by speaking or presenting to a variety of audiences in a range of group settings. This could include:

• Gambling Help service sector
• Hospitality workers, gaming venues
• Community agencies
• Counselling sessions of people affected by problem gambling
• Other interested community members.

You will be paid for your time and reimbursed for travel costs for every engagement.

Speaking engagements are not compulsory - you do not have to accept them once you have been trained. In fact, for some, the training in itself may be a valuable outcome.

For more information call Maureen Germein or Rachel Northeast on 08 8223 4566 or email consumervoice@rasa.org.au

Booking a speaker

Having a speaker talk at your function, event or gathering has many benefits including:

• Allowing the audience to walk in their shoes and gain a greater understanding of the devastating effects of problem gambling on individuals and their families
• Inspiring and giving hope to others grappling with their own gambling difficulties.

Our speakers can:

• Tailor their talk to a particular audience 
• Speak for anywhere between 10 to 60 minutes dependent on the needs of the audience 
• Answer questions and talk informally.

Our speakers can cover metropolitan speaking engagements and, subject to availability, the regional areas in South Australia. They are available for day and evening engagements.

A free service

There is no cost associated with booking a speaker; it is fully funded by the Gambling Rehabilitation Fund.

More information

To book or enquire about a Consumer Voice speaker you can contact Maureen Germein or Rachel Northeast at Relationships Australia (SA) on 08 8223 4566 or email consumervoice@rasa.org.au

Bookings can be made either by phone or by downloading the booking sheet (MS-Word document).

Any feedback on the Project is eagerly sought, please complete and send in the feedback form (MS-Word document).

The Consumer Voice Project is an ongoing project of the Gambling Help Service, Relationships Australia (SA).

Funded through the Gamblers Rehabilitation Fund, a joint initiative of the Australian Hotels Association (SA), Clubs SA, SkyCity and the Government of South Australia.