Gamblers poured $24,388,487 into pokies from July through to November, and looked set to smash last year's record electronic gaming machine punt.

In the 2007-2008 financial year pokies around Ballarat took a massive $54,899,468.

And while operators continue to make a killing from gamblers, most gaming venues are not members of the peak council-chaired industry body.

The Ballarat Responsible Gambling Committee had only two venues listed last month as part of its membership.

Apart from the Sebastopol Bowling Club and Ballarat Trotting Club as well as Melbourne representatives from Tabcorp and Tattersalls, the remaining membership consists of the City of Ballarat, the University of Ballarat and

welfare organisations.

Yet the group has a stated focus to minimise problem gambling and advocate best practice in venues.

Mayor Judy Verlin said the worsening global economy would increase the impact of the city's "significant" gaming expenditure on families.

"We all understand that this is a legitimate industry that employs a number of people in town and provides enjoyment," Cr Verlin said.

"However, for a small number of people who have a problem, it is our responsibility to support them."

tfutopia"It worries me that with the potential downturn in the economy, problem gambling adds another layer to the impact on families."

Committee chairman Cr Des Hudson said venue operators were profiting out of gaming and there was a responsibility for them to participate.

"Whether they see themselves as being too busy or it's not for them, in terms of any venue that has gaming machines there is a role for them to come along and be aware of what the activities are," Cr Hudson said.

"If we want to deliver good outcomes for Ballarat we need all of the players sitting around the table at the one time so we can use the energy of everyone, use the expertise and the knowledge, to actually minimise damage to those who are most at risk."

But John Finning, publican and owner of gaming machine venue Craig's Hotel, said he'd never been approached to join the committee.

"I've participated in different groups before but I'm not aware of the functions of the committee," he said.

"No-one has approached me. I'd certainly like to know more about it. I'd be surprised if we didn't go ahead and join."