The government of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) is enacting measures to tackle gambling-related issues within social clubs while safeguarding their enduring viability. They have formed a new consultative body to offer direction on executing harm-reduction strategies. This body will comprise representatives from social clubs, organizations dedicated to mitigating gambling harm, and labor unions.
Shane Rattenbury, the ACT’s Gaming Minister, will preside over the council. The council will prioritize the implementation of actions outlined in a legislative accord. These actions encompass diminishing the quantity of poker machine permits to 3,500, instituting a $5 wager ceiling and a $100 loading ceiling on these devices, and bolstering self-restriction initiatives.
The ACT government acknowledges the significant function social clubs serve in the lives of numerous Canberra inhabitants, acting as social hubs and patrons of community gatherings. They aspire to achieve equilibrium where clubs can sustain their support for their communities while embracing more stringent protocols to curtail gambling-related harm.
He stressed the importance of customizing assistance for every organization, acknowledging their distinct constituents and objectives.
This committee, comprising the club presidents within the Capital Region, the Workers Union secretary, and the Chief Executive Officer of the Capital Region Gaming Commission, will convene for its first gathering on May 26th.
