New figures showing poker machine losses in NSW have reached a record high of $8.64 billion are horrendous and underscore the urgent need for reform, the CEO of the Alliance for Gambling Reform, Martin Thomas, said.
The latest quarterly data from Liquor and Gambling NSW shows a 7 per cent increase in net profits for pubs and clubs – the steepest increase outside of the COVID rebound in at least six years.
Mr Thomas said these losses represent social harm on an industrial scale across NSW and were exacerbating the cost of living crisis for countless battling families.
“There is clear evidence that a mandatory cashless card with pre-set loss limits would not only reduce criminal money laundering through poker machines but also dramatically reduce gambling harm,” Mr Thomas said.
“This was the clear recommendation of the NSW Crime Commission. The NSW Government should now move swiftly to implement this system rather than continue to delay, delay, delay to protect those making obscene profits from gambling,” he said.
Australians lose more than any other country to gambling on a per capita basis. Every year Australians lose more than $31 billion to gambling.
“Frequent polls have shown that Australians want real gambling reform including the banning of all gambling ads – which has the support of more than 70 per cent of the community,” Mr Thomas.
“While the NSW government should be applauded by banning gambling ads from its transport network, there is no excuse now for it not to implement a carded system of play for all poker machines in the state. It is a move that Victoria has committed to, it’s now time for NSW to act.
“And as we approach a Federal election we must also see the implementation of the Murphy Report which included a recommendation for the ban of all gambling advertising implemented over three years.”
Mr Thomas said gambling harm was a massive public health issue, linked to poor physical and mental health, poverty and homelessness, criminal activity, family violence, and suicide.
Martin Thomas is available for interview on media@agr.org.au – 07 3180 0630
About us:
The Alliance is a national advocacy organisation which works to prevent and minimise the harm from gambling. Our aim is to remove the shame that surrounds gambling addiction, have the problem treated as a public health issue, and achieve the legislative changes needed to protect our communities. We bring together well over 60 organisations who share the objectives of preventing harm from gambling.
Contact details:
media@agr.org.au – 07 3180 0630