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Date: 27th July 2004 Ref No. 1704
Problem Gambling enters Election Debate
UnitingCare Wesley has welcomed statements on gambling policy made today by the Leader of the Opposition, Mark Latham.
“ After some years of refusal by federal governments to accept responsibilities for national gambling issues, the preparedness of Mark Latham to commit to action on significant gambling issues is encouraging’ said Mark Henley, Manager of Advocacy and Communication for UnitingCare Wesley.
UnitingCare Wesley supports each of the 4 commitments on gambling policy given today, particularly the commitment to legislate, if necessary, to set a withdrawal limit for cash from ATM’s in gambling venues. A gaming venue ATM withdrawal limit of a maximum of $200 over any 24 hour period was legislated in South Australia in 2001, but has remained ineffective while banks require national agreement and while there has been no evidence of commitment at Commonwealth Government level.
“ We are also very supportive of the proposed ongoing monitoring of gambling issues by the Productivity Commission with annual reports to COAG” said Mr Henley. “This means that the community will have annual data and information on trends and developments from a highly creditable, independent body.
UnitingCare Wesley appreciated the opportunity to discuss problem gambling issues with Mr Latham and encouraged him to consider additional measures to reduce gambling harm, specifically:
·
National Gaming Machine design rules, including a slower “reel
spin” time
·
Extending the current ban on Internet gambling to include bans
on betting exchanges (eg Betfair) and
home
based interactive sports betting
·
Calling a national summit on strategies to reduce Problem Gambling
·
Strengthening controls on Payday lenders and similar schemes that
attract people with gambling problems, and other people with significant
financial problems.
“ We look forward to the opportunity to discuss strategies to reduce problem gambling with all political parties” concluded Mr Henley “and thank Mark Latham for taking the lead on this significant social issue.”
Further Comment
Mark Henley 8202 5135 (w)
Manager Advocacy & Communication 0404 067 011
8370 1112 (h)
