Released 27/11/2018
The ACT Government has today passed legislation that will reduce the harm caused by problem gambling in our community.
The Government has set out a plan for the reduction of poker machines operating in the Territory to 4,000 by 2020. This plan will provide clubs with an avenue to transition away from gambling based revenue, whilst ensuring that clubs continue to grow, with their customers and communities at heart.
Minister Ramsay said that he was pleased with engagement process and congratulated clubs on their willingness to look at the bigger picture.
“I am pleased that clubs are looking to utilise the Government’s incentives to reduce their number of gaming machines,” Minister Ramsay said.
“Reducing the total number of gaming machines from almost 5000 down to 4000 over the period to 2020 was an election commitment and today we deliver another milestone to reach that commitment.”
In addition to reducing the number of gaming machine authorisations, the package includes draft reforms about what can and can’t be counted as a community contribution.
These are set out in the Exposure Draft Gaming Machine Amendment Regulation 2018, which was tabled as a companion to the Bill and is still open for consultation.
“The Government is interested in hearing views on the details of the proposed reforms to the scheme and I thank those who have already provided feedback,” Minister Ramsay said.
“Our goal is to ensure more money will be distributed back to the community from the proceeds of gaming machines, and that contributions will reach more of Canberra’s community,” Minister Ramsay said.
“This package of reforms will support clubs to diversify away from gaming machines, and directly increase the amount of support our community receives from the industry. We will keep working with clubs and with the community to ensure a better outcome for all.
“The reduction of electronic gaming machine licences in the Territory to 4,000 by 2020 is a Parliamentary Agreement item.”
- Statement ends -
Gordon Ramsay, MLA | Media Releases
Media Contacts
| Name | Phone | Mobile | |
|---|---|---|---|
Anton Gallacher |
(02) 6207 3795 |
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|
Anton Gallacher |
(02) 6205 3795 |
0422 574 108 |