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Date: 11th August 2004 Ref No. 1804
Light Olympic Torch - Don’t Fan Gambling Flames
UnitingCare Wesley is extremely disappointed that the State Government has chosen to approve yet another form of gambling for the State, with today’s announcement that it will allow betting on the Olympic games, through the TAB.
“This decision does not appear to have been thought through” said Mark Henley, Manager of Advocacy and Communication, “our community is not asking for more forms of gambling, in fact the vast majority of South Australians are saying we have too much gambling already.”
“The Olympic games is about athletes striving to achieve their best, they are about goodwill between diverse nations and cultures, they should not be reduced to another cynical opportunity to extract gambling dollars,” Mr Henley opined
UnitingCare Wesley is particularly concerned that increased gambling opportunities, particularly focused on events like the Olympic games are likely to be particularly attractive to younger people. We know from our counselling work that people who start gambling at a young age are much more likely to develop problems and behaviours at some stage in the lives. Increased opportunities to bet on the Olympics, provides yet another pathway into gambling for young people and will subsequently lead to increased levels of problem gambling.
“It is also disappointing that there has been no community consultation over this decision to allow betting on the Olympics, when everyone concerned has known for years when the Olympic games will be conducted. Why has this decision been left to the very last minute?” asked Mr Henley.
UnitingCare Wesley urges the State Government and the Independent Gambling Authority to continue to be vigilant in reducing risk of additional problem gambling in all areas of gambling activity, and not just to rely on the good work being done to reduce poker machine related harm. This means not approving any more forms of gambling in South Australia and continuing to push the Commonwealth Government to be much more proactive in reducing gambling harm.
Further Comment
Mark Henley 8202 5135 (w)
Manager Advocacy & Communication 0404 067 011
8370 1112 (h)
