Casey council this month announced a "zero growth" stand on poker machines in the municipality as part of a draft electronic gaming machines strategy.

Taskforce chairman Mark Zirnsak praised the strategy, on exhibition until September 24, for not supporting gaming applications in suburbs where the poker machine density was above the state average.

However, it could go further, he said.

"It could be improved by ruling out high-vulnerability areas as areas where additional poker machines may be located.

"It could also explore the possibility of increasing rates on poker machine venues as a means of compensating for the harm they are causing the local community."

A map outlining which areas would be exempt from new poker machines would also boost the strategy, he said.

A Gambler's Help Southern spokeswoman said the strategy could be improved by supporting "pre-commitment" gambling measures.

"In this way, people who choose to gamble can allocate what they'd like to spend on poker machines before play begins," she said.

Gambler's Help Southern also recommended that the council:

■ Acknowledge the harm that could occur through all forms of gambling.

■ Consider whether the council was a recipient of financial or in-kind assistance, support and donations from any aspect of the gambling industry.

■Commit to collaborating with Gamblers Help Southern on activities for Responsible Gambling Awareness Week each year.

The draft strategy can be viewed at www.casey.vic.gov.au.