Poker machine reform has been a hot topic in Australia's gambling market. Everyone seems to have a different opinion on Andrew Wilke's gambling reform plan, which will require players to set their own betting limits before playing poker machines. It seems that there is very little support for the plan, but those opposed also seem to disagree amongst themselves.
The most common argument against pokie reform is that it simply is not effective. Many believe that allowing players to set their own betting limits is just not going to work. If players are able to set their own betting limits, problem gamblers can continue to wager however much money they want, defeating the purpose of gambling reform altogether. Since the implementation of the reform requires clubs to install new software on their poker machines, it would cost millions of dollars - for what is believed to be an ineffective regime.
The Liberals have presented an alternative to Wilke's pokie reform by suggesting a $1 betting limit per spin. This idea has also been rejected, as most gamblers do not place wagers exceeding $1 anyways. The plan would also require the expensive installation of new software, which clubs are not willing to pay for.
Clubs across the country also believe that placing any limits on gaming will have a detrimental effect on society at large. As a large portion of land-based gaming revenues are allocated to charities and not-for-profit organizations, local communities could lose out on arts, sports, health and education funding. Most charities have kept quiet on the issue, however, choosing not to take one side or the other.
Pokie reform will not apply to online casino games and online pokies, so it is believed that if limits are imposed, problematic players will simply take their gaming online. As such, other oppositions to the idea believe that gambling addiction is rooted in deeper issues than the availability of gambling. Therefore, betting limits are still considered to be ineffective, and those who have adopted this school of thought believe that the solution lies in gambling counseling and education. It is believed that more government funds should be put into educating the public about responsible gambling. This would help to discourage players losing control in both online and land-based gaming venues.
Despite all of the opposition, Wilkie is convinced that pokie reform is the most effective way to stop problem gambling rates from rising. He has convinced a few politicians and a portion of the general public that it is an effective approach to dealing with gambling addiction in Australia, but he still has a long way to go before his plan is legislated.
No comments:
Post a Comment