RESTRICTIONS on how much cash people can withdraw through EFTPOS at gaming venues has been welcomed by the region’s top problem gambler’s support group.
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The state government has announced strict EFTPOS cash withdrawal limits to $500 within a 24-hour period.
The practice of cashing cheque at gaming venues would also be banned.
Bethany community support chief executive officer Grant Boyd said the organisation welcomed the state government’s announcement to minimise the harm caused by gambling.
Mr Boyd said the reforms were a step in the right direction in addressing a significant community issue.
“As a local provider of gambler’s help support services, Bethany sees first-hand the damage that can be caused by problem gambling both to individuals and to the community more broadly,” he said. “We encourage any policy or reform that helps to reduce the harm caused.”
In the past financial year punters put more than $41 million through the south-west’s gaming machines.
The data released by the Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation showed gaming expenditure in the region was up $1 million from the previous financial year.
Minister for Gaming and Liquor Regulation Marlene Kairouz said the state government had already taken strong action to reduce the harm from gambling on the community.
“We are capping pokies numbers across the state, limiting daily cash withdrawals in venues and restricting betting advertising in our public spaces,” she said. “This is about protecting people and helping those who choose to gamble stick to their limits.”
