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Pokies Reform – The Victorian government has recently announced a series of sweeping reforms aimed at addressing the harmful effects of gambling. These reforms include strict limitations on poker machine usage, with gamblers now being restricted to a pre-commitment limit of $100. Community Clubs Australia expressed concerns these measures will encourage gamblers to find solace in online casinos.
Additionally, the government is introducing the mandatory use of pre-loaded cards for playing poker machines, as part of their efforts to combat money laundering in gaming venues. These measures are being touted as the toughest electronic gambling machine restrictions in the country.
According to Premier Daniel Andrews, the goal of these reforms is to prioritize the safety of individuals who engage in gambling. The government aims to tackle the growing issue of gambling-related harm that affects approximately 330,000 Victorians each year, resulting in losses nearing $7 billion. By implementing a $100 pre-commitment limit, gamblers will only be able to input a maximum of $100 into an electronic gaming machine at one time. This represents a significant reduction from the current load-up limit of $1,000, effectively curbing excessive gambling behavior.
In addition to the pre-commitment limit, the reforms also require gamblers to use pre-loaded cards when playing poker machines. This measure serves a dual purpose. Firstly, it ensures that individuals cannot exceed their pre-set limits, thereby promoting responsible gambling behavior. Secondly, the use of cards helps prevent money laundering through gaming venues, further safeguarding the integrity of the gambling industry.
To limit the amount of money that can be lost during gameplay, the Victorian government has decided to slow down the spin rate of poker machines. From now on, machines will operate at a rate of three seconds per game. This change is based on research that shows a correlation between faster spin rates and increased gambling losses. By slowing down the spin, players have a better chance of making informed decisions and avoiding impulsive behavior driven by the dopamine release associated with the feeling of winning.
In addition to the monetary limitations, the reforms dictate that gaming areas in venues with poker machines, excluding Crown Casino, must remain closed between the hours of 4 am and 10 am. This restriction aims to promote healthier gambling habits by discouraging late-night and early-morning gambling sessions, which can often lead to excessive and harmful behavior.
The reforms not only focus on restricting gameplay and slowing down poker machines but also encompass a wider range of measures to support individuals affected by gambling harm. The government plans to enhance support services provided to those struggling with problem gambling. Some of the services previously offered by the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation will now be taken over by the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC), starting July 1, 2024. With an allocated budget of $71 million, the VGCCC will play a larger role in minimizing gambling harm.
While the reforms have been praised for their intention to protect individuals from gambling harm, there have been concerns raised by various stakeholders. Community Clubs Victoria (CCV) welcomes the initiative to combat money laundering but questions the need for smaller clubs to face the same stringent restrictions imposed on larger venues and casinos. CCV chief executive Andrew Lloyd emphasizes that community clubs have their own compliance measures in place, including self-exclusion programs and responsible gaming officers.
On the other hand, the leader of the Victorian Greens, Tim Read, argues that the reforms do not go far enough. The Greens advocate for a complete overhaul of the system, with the ultimate goal of removing poker machines from communities entirely. They propose additional measures, such as:
The Victorian government’s introduction of the $100 limit on poker machines and mandatory pre-loaded cards is a significant stride towards creating a safer gambling environment. By reducing the load-up limit and implementing time restrictions, the reforms aim to minimize the potential for excessive losses and harmful gambling behavior. Coupled with slower spin rates and enhanced support services, these measures are expected to better protect Victorians from gambling-related harm.
As Victoria takes the lead in implementing these comprehensive reforms, it remains to be seen how the changes will impact the gambling landscape in the state. The government’s commitment to keeping individuals safe and its recognition of the need for stringent regulations set a positive precedent for other jurisdictions across Australia and beyond. Ultimately, the success of the
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