FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions) - University of Sydney Harm Minimisation research project
What is this research about, and why is it important? West HQ is committed to providing our members and their guests with a safe, fun and social environment, whether it’s catching a show at our Sydney Coliseum Theatre, enjoying our sports and fitness facilities, dining at our variety of high-quality eateries or socialising with friends. As a hospitality industry leader, we are also dedicated to ensuring that our gaming experience is safe and enjoyable. This is why we are assisting The University of Sydney’s Gambling Treatment and Research Clinic on this important research initiative to explore the attitudes and behaviours of our members and guests towards gaming. Based on the research findings, West HQ will look to implement practical recommendations that aim to make your gaming experience safer and more enjoyable.
Is my participation required? Participation in this research is entirely voluntary. To opt out of any further communication regarding the research project, please contact West HQ via loyal@westhq.com.au by Tuesday 12th December, 2023 at 5pm.
Do I receive anything for my participation? As a thank you for your participation, you will be provided a voucher for a free gelato at West HQ’s invenue Gelatissimo, once you have completed the survey.
If I don’t want to participate, what should I do? We hope you will help us make a positive impact by participating in this research, but if you would like to opt out for any reason, please contact West HQ via loyal@westhq.com.au by Tuesday 12th December, 2023 at 5pm.
Is it confidential? Yes. Our members and guests always come first, and we recognise the importance of protecting the privacy and the rights of individuals concerning their personal information and survey responses. This is an independent project designed by the University of Sydney’s respected gaming research team, who have complete control over the research design and findings to maintain transparency, neutrality, and confidentiality.
How can you guarantee the security of any data provided? The University of Sydney maintains the highest standards when it comes to ethics, security, data ownership, and privacy. The online survey tool used for the survey meets the highest level of security and is protected by high-end firewall systems that are regularly scanned for potential vulnerabilities.
If I complete this survey, will West HQ know my gaming behaviours? No. All information provided in response to the survey will be de-identified, confidential and will not be shared with any third party, including West HQ. How will my participation make an impact? Your insights and experiences are valuable, and by participating in this research, you can help make a positive impact. The more people who participate will ensure a broad and accurate cross-section of attitudes and behaviours are included and therefore represented in the findings.
Based on the research findings, West HQ will look to implement practical recommendations that aim to make your gaming experience safer and more enjoyable.
How long will it take to complete the survey? The survey should take around 10 minutes to complete.
What questions will be asked in the survey? The survey contains questions around gaming behaviour, play management strategies, attitudes towards cashless systems, alcohol consumption, technology literacy and some other basic demographic questions.
Can I fill in the survey multiple times? No, the survey should only be completed once, by you, to ensure the research provides valid data.
If my responses suggest I am at risk, will the University or West HQ take action? No. The data collected is de-identified and is not linked to you. There is no way to attribute survey responses to an individual.
While I am happy to participate, how can I do it without using the allocated link provided? There are multiple ways to participate and complete the survey, including: -
Online via a link emailed directly to you; Scanning the QR Code on the posters on the West HQ Gaming Floor which take you to the online survey; Paper copies of the survey are available at the Gaming Floor Cashier, which you can fill in and submit anonymously in a sealed envelope while in the venue.
What happens if I start the survey but decide against completing it? Your participation in this study is completely voluntary. You may withdraw at any time. However, you will only receive the voucher for a free gelato at West HQ’s in-venue Gelatissimo after the survey has been completed.
What else is the University doing for the research project? In addition to the survey, The University of Sydney will be drawing on gaming machine usage at West HQ and insights from a series of 90-minute online focus groups made up of voluntary participants who meet a certain screening criteria.
Who are the researchers behind this project? The research has been designed and will be conducted by a team of experts from The University of Sydney’s Gambling Treatment and Research Clinic, led by respected Australian researcher in gambling treatment, Professor Sally Gainsbury. You can learn more about the Gambling Treatment & Research Clinic University of Sydney at Gambling treatment clinic - Brain and Mind Centre (sydney.edu.au).
I’m worried I might have a problem with gaming/gambling Telephone the BetSafe 24 hour counselling service on 1800 BETSAFE | 1800 238 723