This week, the Queensland government lifted gambling limits for pokies. Premier Campbell Newman now permits pokie players to insert $50 and $100 bills into gaming machines, whereas they were previously limited to bills smaller than $20. As expected, the decision has attracted a great deal of controversy.
Deputy Opposition Leader Tim Mulherin has criticized Mr Newman’s decision, stating that he has failed to promise that the change will not result in escalated problem gambling rates. It seems that the decision was made without giving consideration to its potential effects on compulsive gamblers, and the local government has come under scrutiny for failing to do so.
In fact, the government previously extolled the benefits of limiting players to using smaller bills. In a recent evaluation of the scheme, the limit prevented players from spontaneously making large bets and potentially losing control on their spending. It also noted that the limit encouraged players to take breaks from gambling, during which time they could decide whether or not it is appropriate to spend more money.
A study recently evaluated the effects of the limit, and problem gamblers responded well to it. In 2003, 359 gamblers were interviewed about their gambling habits, and the results found that more than 30% of players were able to curb their spending. The limit certainly had a positive effect on problem gambling rates in Queensland, and now it seem as though the work may be undone.
“It would be tragic if these positive outcomes were demolished at the stroke of a pen just because the LNP wants to cosy up to the gambling lobby.” The Opposition will continue to fight the removal of the limit. The group will likely receive support from responsible gambling advocates across Queensland.
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