Pokie Machine Numbers Will Not Rise Under Proposed New Laws

Instead, capping machine numbers


Article heading image for Pokie Machine Numbers Will Not Rise Under Proposed New Laws

Minister for Racing Paul Toole shut down claims that the total number of gaming machines in NSW would rise under proposed new laws. 

Mr Toole says they ignore the Government's proposal to cap the number of gaming machines in high-risk areas. 

“About 20 per cent of NSW will become a ‘no go’ zone for additional machines, ensuring the number of machines in these high-risk areas can only ever fall,” Mr Toole said.

Meanwhile, the NSW Greens estimate proposed changes to poker machine laws in the state will see a significant reduction in poker machine numbers in NSW. Not only that, but they estimate the reduction will boost profits for NSW clubs and pubs by an estimated more than $80 million a year by 2020. 

Greens MP and Gambling Harm Spokesperson Justin Field says the NSw government was playing politics with those affected by poker machines in NSW.

“The new gambling legislation protects vested interests and the profits of the pokies industry while turning a blind eye to the serious harm caused by poker machines in this state,” he said.

“Community momentum for change is growing, but the Government has sided with the industry and has locked in the obscene number of machines that is widely recognised as causing unacceptable harm across the state." 

 

 

 

 

 

13 March 2018




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