WorkSafe AFL Victoria Country Record Article (NO.17)
Love the Game, not the Odds
Betting has changed.
More than ever our fans, members and players are exposed to sports betting advertising through the media, new apps and technology.
AFL Victoria has a responsibility to protect supporters of our great game from harm, particularly reducing the exposure of our young fans to sports betting promotion.
Together with the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation,AFL Victoria is encouraging fans to remember the passion, not the odds.
With finals just around the corner, football is as exciting as ever, but with the increase in betting promotion over the years, it’s easy to forget what really matters. We’re asking fans to remember that our game is great enough.
AFL Victoria, together with the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation is showing its support of the Love the Game campaign through a number of initiatives, including adedicated VFL Love the Game Round from July 23-24.
In addition, the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation is working with more than 160 clubs across the state at both the elite and local sporting level to counter the growing culture of gambling in sport.
Many Victorian clubs and leagues around the state have joined us in supporting the Foundation’s message by signing the Responsible Gambling Charter and promoting the ‘Love the Game’ Campaign.
The Charter, which has been signed by nine Victorian based AFL clubs, aims to separate ‘the game’ from gambling.
Endorsing the Charter at the VFL and TAC Cup season launch earlier this year, AFL Victoria is encouraging community football clubs to sign up to help ensure they continue to provide a safe, healthy and inclusive environment for players, families, members and supporters.
Chief Executive Officer Steven Reaper said AFL Victoria is committed to working with the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation to address the impact gambling can have on our game and the community.
“AFL Victoria understands the importance of responsible gambling and will encourage clubs to focus on the love of the game, not the odds,” Reaper said.
“Our ongoing partnership with the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation will help educate and raise awareness of responsible gambling within the community.
“People need to be aware of their limits with gambling, and the impact it can have on young people in a sporting club environment.
“By signing the Charter, clubs will endeavour to minimise the exposure to gambling advertising and betting activities.”
For more information on the Love the Game campaign, visit