In an attempt to curb problem gambling rates across Australia, the federal government has passed poker machine reform legislation. By allowing players to set their own betting limits as well as limiting the amount of money that gaming club patrons can withdraw from ATMs, the new laws aim to reduce the prevalence of problem gambling in the country.

Now, similar stances have been adopted on local levels, as Queensland and Victoria enact their own laws to fight problem gambling. In Queensland, it is now a requirement for gaming venue staff to undergo responsible gambling training. They will be taught how to identify compulsive gambling behaviour and how to intervene when they suspect a player is acting irresponsibly.

Equipped with this knowledge, gaming venue staff members should be able to refer problem gamblers to necessary services and facilities, such as counseling and helplines. One of the major reasons that problem gambling has become so prevalent in society is the lack of education on compulsive behaviour.

Players and gambling staff are both unable to identify the signs of problem gambling, so few individuals take advantage of counselling and other help services that encourage responsible gambling. The news of Queensland’s new responsible gambling training program comes shortly after Victoria has announced its new ban on the use of headphones while playing pokies.

It is one of several initiatives that the state has enacted in order to reduce problem gambling, in addition to banning ATMs at pokies venue. Although gambling spending has dropped by $62 million in the state, the Victorian government is pleased that fewer gaming dollars are coming from addicted players. Following the implementation of its new training program, a similar financial result is expected in Queensland.

However, state politicians are more invested in reducing problem gambling rates than profiting from gambling spending; so, they will likely find new, more productive ways to raise tax revenue and fund community initiatives.

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.