Time limits proposed for poker machines

The Victorian Government has announced new measures to tackle problem gambling.

Gamblers will be able to set time and spending limits on new poker machines, from 2010.

Maximum betting limits will be halved from $10 to $5 per spin and there will be a new advertising campaign targeting problem gamblers.

The Gaming Minister, Tony Robinson says the time and spending limits will be voluntary.

"Well every machine will have an option where that's possible, whether or not that's mandated will depend in part upon the technical advice we get," he said.

"Pre-committment is a rapidly emerging field. There are only one or two jurisdictions that are looking at it."

The Opposition Leader, Ted Baillieu, says it is a token gesture.

He says the government will not take real measures to tackle problem gambling because it is reliant on the revenue.

"If he's going to put a warning sign on poker machines, it ought to very clearly say, beware, you're going to lose your money and John Brumby's going to take it," he said.

"The Victorian Government's the biggest problem gambler of all and that ought to be the warning sign if there's going to be one."

News Added: 25 March, 2008

Number of views : 143