The Chair of the Alliance for Gambling Reform has praised the achievements of its chief executive, Carol Bennett, in putting gambling harm ‘front and centre’ of the nation’s conscience.

Ms Bennett has this week announced her plans to leave the organisation, saying she was proud of what she was able to achieve in the two and half years in the role.

“Carol has worked tirelessly and successfully to highlight the terrible damage Australia’s gambling epidemic is inflicting on people, families and communities across the nation,” Alliance board chair, Sharon Dickson, said.

“Under Carol’s leadership and the work of Tim Costello, the board, staff and our supporters, AGR has been very successful in delivering real progress for gambling reform in Australia.”

“The Alliance is now well-positioned to continue to advocate for key reforms at all levels of government now that we have engaged with the federal government on policy reforms that are so desperately needed to protect the community from a predatory and pervasive gambling industry.”

Ms Bennett said her time leading the organisation was a privilege and she was incredibly proud of the progress the Alliance had made in pushing for greater gambling harm protections.

“I am proud of what we have been able to achieve together in my two and a half years in the role of CEO and I will continue to be a passionate advocate for gambling reform,” she said.

“This has not been an easy decision for me and I know that the work of the Alliance is far from over.  My decision to leave is mostly about my need to refresh, take on new challenges and explore new opportunities.”

Ms Bennett will continue in her role as CEO while a search is undertaken by the AGR Board for her replacement.

Rev Costello will continue in his role as Chief Advocate for the Alliance.