Recently, we reported that the ACT government enacted a new note limit for poker machines, allowing players to use $50 notes. Now, after a great deal of backlash and criticism, the new limit has been withdrawn. According to ABC News, ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr has spoken out against the new limit. The limit has now been repealed.
Players will not be able to wager $50 notes on poker machines, and the limit will remain for $20 notes. "She has made an error in this instance, we agree that that was an error, and we're fixing it, and all I can do is apologise for that error," he says. He blames Gaming Minister Joy Burch for the ill-advised decision to allow players to wager more money on pokies, and states that he was not consulted about the limit increase.
"I was a little disappointed that I wasn't made aware of that change," Mr Barr continues. "I've spoken with Joy to express my disappointment at not being made aware of these changes." It is no wonder Mr Barr is disappointed with Ms Burch’s decision. Responsible gambling advocates from the ACT and across Australia had spoken out against the limit increase, stating that it would lead to a rise in problem gambling rates.
While Ms Burch maintained that there would be no negative effect on the community, she could not convince gambling researchers and scholars of her stance. While responsible gambling advocates are pleased with the limit increase being repealed, one group is not impressed. Jeff House, Chief Executive of ClubsACT, has stated members of his organisation are frustrated and angry about the ‘backflip’.
It was only a few days ago that Joy Burch defended the move, and now the ACT government is withdrawing the limit increase. "It's very difficult for clubs to plan and forecast when we work towards a decision, see that decision being made and then have it reversed," Mr House says.
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