Media Release
October 27, 2011
The Australian Christian Lobby said it was disappointing that the Opposition looks set to oppose mandatory pre-commitment technology for addictive high-loss poker machines.
Managing Director Jim Wallace said mandatory pre-commitment should not be dismissed as a tool to combat gambling-induced poverty without even conducting a trial.
“I am concerned that vested interests such as Mr Packer’s Crown Casino, the clubs industry and State Governments addicted to poker machine revenue are having undue influence in this debate.”
With 95,000 poker machine users classed as problem gamblers losing a staggering $5 billion per year, it was important for the government to act, Mr Wallace said.
“I would urge the Opposition to re-think its stance on mandatory pre-commitment and at least propose that a trial be conducted in the Northern Territory,Tasmania or another suitable locality.”
See also ACL urges Government to implement Gambling Reform Committee’s recommendations
Disappointing stance by Abbott. Can the ACL get a petition going in support of a crack down on the pokies?
I am against gambling and I reject the culture that claims it is just being ‘Australian’. However the approach to problem gambling has to be well planned and even handed.
Will the government move against the sickening internet gambling that goes right into the home and is available to kids watching sporting events etc? No! it won’t! Its too hard! Do internet gambling outlets all pay Australian tax and community assistance? No they don’t.
Will the government pressure the States and Territories to reduce taxes on clubs to compensate for lost revenue? No! because they won’t do it anyway.
Will the Government move against Keno and scratchy’s? No, it hasn’t thought about that.
I could go to a club and lose $10 every 5 minutes on Keno, and it is all State/Territory cop. No community spin-off.
Clubs employ and train kids. They employ my down syndrome son who can’t find employment elsewhere. Does wonders for his self esteem.
Please think it through instead of a seat-of-the-pants reaction to he government’s plan, which is a desperate, ill thought-out agenda.
Having grown up in a household of addicted poker machine players and knowing the impact that had on our family I cannot understand anyone not favouring any attempt to cut some of the damage being done to Australian families not to mention the economy by the uncontrolled gambling on these machines. Counselling can be provide but unless the gambler wants to change, just like an alcoholic, they wil not access any help unless forced and as that can’t be done then this is the next best thing. Next should be the banning of betting ads on TV especially during sporting programmes when the majority of gamblers will be watching. Shame on Tony Abbott for falling into the position that he has. It is a “populist” decision and not one taken with any real examination of the facts. All the more reason for me to vote Independent, preferably for a Christian candidate if one is available.