MOMENTUM is building for the problem gambling summit being organised by Fairfield Councillor, Thang Ngo, and Greens council candidate, Bill Cashman.

The organisers were unable to secure a Fairfield Council venue with Fairfield Mayor Nick Lalich last week labelling the event a "waste of time".

The growing list of speakers and guests will instead converge on the Green Valley District Centre in Hinchinbrook on Friday, May 16.

An estimated 78per cent of disposable income in Fairfield in spent on gambling.

Cr Ngo said the summit was an important and valuable initiative.

"We know there isn't going to be an overnight solution to this very serious problem," he said. "However, the summit is bringing together a range of people to discuss how we can work towards a solution."

So far, the speaker line up includes Dr John Haw (UWS), Kate Roberts of the Gambling Impact Society, Rowan Cameron of the Australian Hotels Association and Echo Morgan of the Multicultural Problem Gambling Service.

The problem gambling summit is not the first forum to address the needs of locals. Fairfield RSL partnered with The Salvation Army to open Sydney's first problem gambling centre in Fairfield.

RSL general manager, Anthony Sobb, said the centre was based on a model established in Las Vegas.

"People can come into the centre or call the Salvos hotline and have access to financial assistance and advice, counselling, Gamblers Anonymous and more, " he said.

If you are experiencing problems with gambling you can call 97238134.