The Carlton Football Club and Northern Blues Football Club have formed a new partnership to further assist local communities.

In conjunction with Banyule Community Health Gambler’s Help Northern, they’ve launched the Responsible Gambling Awareness Program.

The program is aimed at helping local club members or associates who may be vulnerable to gambling beyond their means, to take a responsible approach. Counsellors from Gambler’s Help Northern will train and develop Club leaders, to recognise the signs and offer support.

Minister for Gaming Regulation Edward O’Donohue launched the partnership at the Northern Blues Football Club in Preston on Wednesday.

Carlton Football Club’s General Manager of Operations, Martin Shannon, says it’s a terrific initiative that will make a real difference in the community.

“We believe this is a very practical and proactive program that will assist those that may be vulnerable to gambling beyond their means.”

“Leaders and peers in Clubs will be educated, to be aware of signs that members, colleagues or friends, may be in a situation that is heading beyond control."

Carlton Football Club Board member Mark LoGiudice says the Board fully supports the program.

“Sport has a positive impact on health, and football in particular, has a positive impact on people’s lives through the work football clubs do in the community."

“The Carlton Football Club also recognises it has a responsibility to the community, and as such, the club is committed to allocating resources to help drive change for the better."

The announcement coincides with Responsible Gambling Awareness Week in Victoria, which runs from May 20 to 26.