Despite research showing that the removal of some gaming machines in 2001 had little impact on problem gambling numbers, the Bracks government in Victoria has announced plans to shift 540 pokies out of poorer areas. The policies outlined yesterday drew condemnation from both anti-gambling groups and the gaming industry, and ignored recommendations from the government’s own backbench committee for the removal of 1500 machines.

There will now be no more than 10 gaming machines per 1,000 population in certain capped regions, and ATMs will only be allowed to dispense a maximum A$400 dollar per client per day at gaming venues. Maximum bets will be reduced from A$10 to A$5 and all winnings over A$1,000 will have to be paid by cheque. Crown Casino, with 2,500 gaming machines, will not be subject to the new regulations.

Councils will have the power to refuse new machines in their area but the Government has been accused of half-measures because it has not reduced the overall machine numbers of 30,000. One community group said that the new restrictions did not address the major issues of reducing government dependence on gaming revenue and keeping research independent from government.

Victoria is to set aside A$7.2 million for research projects, A$2.6 million to strengthen the industry self-exclusion programme and A$79.8 million to enhance Gamblers’ Help. Yesterday Steve Bracks said that the A$132.2 million policy was the Government's commitment to act on problem gambling and provide an environment where people can gamble responsibly. (E-10.13.06)

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