The Independent Member for Clark, Kristie Johnston, says she cautiously welcomes the Government’s announcement to implement pre-commitment cards on poker machines.
“After many years campaigning for harm minimisation measures, I’m pleased to see the Government take action and stand up against the gambling industry.
“A properly monitored and implemented pre-commitment scheme has potential to minimise harm caused by poker machine addiction, but the devil is in the detail and we are yet to see it.
“However, it is important to realise that this is no magic fix, even with the limits announced by the Government.
“Losses of $100 per day can still cause immense harm and destroy lives.
“Ultimately, a pre-commitment scheme targets the user and does nothing to address the dangerous and addictive features of the machines themselves. That’s why I have and will continue to campaign for other harm minimisation measures such as $1 maximum bets, slower spin speeds and restricted gaming venue opening hours.”
Ms Johnston said the real impact of the scheme will be seen in those municipalities that experience the highest losses from poker machines;
“The real test for this pre-commitment scheme will be in an area like Glenorchy, where the community currently loses close to $2 million per month.
“I’ll be monitoring this very closely.”