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Coalition invites input on Gambling Reform
02-November-2011
Download Coalition Discussion Paper
Today’s release of the Federal Coalition’s Policy Discussion Paper on Gambling Reform is an opportunity for anyone to have a say on the important issue of problem gambling.
Federal Member for Farrer, Sussan Ley, says “the Coalition understands gambling
can be a major problem for some people but, for many others, it is a recreational activity enjoyed responsibly within personal limits set by themselves”.
“The challenge for government is balancing the legitimate right of adult Australians to
gamble responsibly with appropriate protections in place, while supporting the small number of people for whom it can also have tragic and financial consequences.”
“I am not persuaded the Gillard/Wilkie mandatory pre-commitment proposal will address problem gambling. Indeed, the major concern is the significant flow-on impacts it will have on local employment and communities across Farrer.”
“As an example, a recent Corowa Shire study found the reforms could potentially produce a loss of 200 local jobs and $34 million dollars, absolutely devastating to this local economy.”
“The Coalition’s approach to problem gambling will address the social, economic
and policy challenges of gambling reform. The Gillard Government’s mandatory
pre-commitment scheme is about the politics of minority government”, Ms Ley concluded.
Copies of the discussion paper, which covers all forms of gambling, can be downloaded from Sussan’s website or is available for pick up or posting from either of Farrer’s Albury or Broken Hill electorate offices.
A Coalition Working Group will receive written submissions until 31 January 2012.