Clubs NSW has recently launched a trial of a new program which is receiving a great deal of criticism already. The program, which will put Salvation Army chaplains in gaming clubs to offer assistance and counselling to players, is being called a “white wash” at best. The program will be trialled at Mingara Recreational Club, which is home to 402 pokies.

The gaming room will host a number of Salvation Army chaplains, who will lend an ear to any gamblers who require assistance. They will provide counselling and make home visits to those who request their help. Anthony Ball of Clubs Australia believes that the program will encourage problem gamblers to seek help.

Unfortunately, Tim Costello is not convinced. Stating that the program is “completely cosmetic”, he believes that it does not truly aim to help problem gamblers and instead acts as a façade to make Clubs Australia seem interested in the well-being of the general public. "They know that chaplains won't seriously affect their bottom line or see significant reform at all,” he says.

As such, he continues to back gambling reform and betting limits. He believes that $1 betting limits are the key to helping solve the issue of problem gambling in Australia, along with a number of local political parties.

About the Author

George Anderson
Author George, has over 25+ years’ experience in the Pokies and Casinos industry throughout Australia and New Zealand. Loves to research new Pokies games on the block and follows announcements from top industry providers about their upcoming releases. As soon as a new interesting pokie game appears on his radar, George is there to check it out and give you the scoop before anyone else and tell you about all casino sites where can play the latest game. Before this gig, George worked as Pokie game tester, making him an ideal candidate for this genre of work. He is also an animal lover and a proud owner of three dogs.