In Brimbank, local councillors have recently decided to set new guidelines for differential rates. They will be applied to a wide range of properties, including commercial land and industrial land; however, pokie clubs and casinos will be exempt. The idea of introducing differential rates for gambling venues was introduced in July 2013.
Responsible gambling advocates argued that the extra tax income could be used to fund problem gambling help programs. Councillors backed the proposal, and it was suggested that pokie venues pay twice as much as commercial and industrial properties.
This week, the plan was rejected, as Minister Jeanette Powell announced that differential rates would be applied for various types of land, including: general use, residential, farm, commercial, industrial and derelict land. According to Brimbank Weekly, differential rates will not apply to gaming venues.
Local councillors believe that introducing differential rates for pokie clubs and casinos would inadvertently push a social agenda, and the new guidelines prevent this from being the case. However, responsible gambling advocates continue to support the implementation of differential rates for gaming clubs.
According to Dr Charles Livingstone of Monash University, a well-respected problem gambling researcher, it would be acceptable if the funds generated were used to appropriate causes. "They are diverting expenditure away from the kind of activities councils are trying to encourage and impact upon the kinds of services working with councils to alleviate poverty,” he says.
In the past, differential rates have had a positive impact on the community. For years, they helped to generate an additional $1 million for community organizations across Victoria. However, Premier Denis Napthine recently ruled against differential rates, stating that simply taxing it at a higher price would not help to reduce problem gambling.
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