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Pokie surge in Newcastle – long term reduction targets needed
Tuesday 18 August 2009
Responding to today's report that the number of poker machines in Newcastle has increased, Greens MP and gambling spokesperson Lee Rhiannon said the NSW government is failing problem gamblers and has not honoured its own commitment to reduce the number of machines in low-socio economic areas.
Commenting on a page 1 story in today's Newcastle Herald, Ms Rhiannon said, "The record number of 3,640 poker machines in Newcastle is an indictment of the NSW government and their failed approach to problem gambling.
"In 2007 the then Gaming and Racing Minister trumpeted the government's plans to reduce pokie numbers in 'high-risk' areas.
"That policy is in tatters. The outcome has been more revenue for the hotel and club industry.
"The profits are obscene. Figures from the Office of Liquor, Gaming and Racing reveal that poker machines in Newcastle recorded a profit of more than $31 million during the first quarter of 2009.
"The people of the Hunter will continue to be fleeced by excessive numbers of gambling machines until the government radically reworks its approach to gambling.
"NSW needs long terms targets to significantly reduce the number of poker machines.
"We should follow Victoria's lead and give local government a more significant role in determining the limit on poker machine numbers.
"These figures about poker machines in Newcastle underline an unhealthy relationship between political parties and the hotel and club industry.
"Over the past decade Clubs NSW have donated more than $820,000 to Labor and the Coalition parties with the split about equal.
"The hotel industry has given $3.5 million in donations with $2.2 million going to the ALP.
"Hotels and clubs are the industries with the most to gain from the spread of poker machines,” Ms Rhiannon said.
Contact: Greens MP Lee Rhiannon 9230 3551, 0427 861 568
