At the weekend strict new gaming machine laws came into effect in New South Wales. The new measures are intended to give communities greater protection from problem gambling and include a reduction in gaming machine numbers and the prevention of additional gaming machines in high risk areas. The Gaming and Racing Minister, Kevin Greene, described the move as the Rees Government taking action to protect the most vulnerable in society.

Applications to increase machine numbers must now face a stringent Local Impact Assessment by the Casino, Liquor and Gaming Control Authority. Local councils, residents, police and problem Gambling counsellors will be notified of applications and given the opportunity to submit comments to the authority.

The national Productivity Council is taking submissions from the public on the removal of ATMs at clubs and pubs as part of its inquiry into gambling. Clubs NSW is to argue that such an ATM ban would put its members at risk of being robbed at street located ATMs. There have been some recent attacks on teller machines. Nationally over A$9 billion is withdrawn each year from ATMs in clubs and pubs. (E-02.02.09)

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