Pokie spending seems to be at an all-time high, and many politicians across the country are interested in discouraging players from gambling. However, that sentiment is not shared in Queensland, where local politicians are considering increasing pokie bet limits and allowing clubs to stay open longer. A discussion paper concerning removing ‘red tape’ for pokie venues was recently published.

It aimed to provide local politicians with a number of provisions that would make pokie clubs more accessible, increasing competition in the gambling market and ultimately increasing revenue. However, the recommendations made in the discussion paper have not gone over very well with local responsible gambling advocates. One recommendation made by the discussion paper suggests that poker machine clubs open earlier.

This would allow players to visit clubs and pubs any time they fancy a punt. Other suggestions include increasing betting limits from $5 to $10 per spin. Some politicians would like to see poker machines permit the use of $50 and $100 bills, rather than imposing the current limit of $20 bills. Local responsible gambling organizations believe that increasing betting limits would do more harm than good.

As illustrated by the federal government’s introduction of voluntary pre-commitment technology, there is a need for players to limit how much they are spending on pokies. By increasing betting limits, Queensland could be infringing on the federal government’s pokie reform strategies.

"When we see a proposal that's going to increase the capacity of people to lose more money, it basically terrifies us,” says Richard Johnson, director of UnitingCare. The Queensland Council of Social Service is also quite hesitant to consider these new recommendations. CEO Mark Henley believes that the state should balance any new gambling limits with adequate problem gambling services.

If Queensland wants to increase betting limits and extend opening hours for pokie clubs, it is up to politicians to promote responsible gambling and offer more support for gambling addicts.

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.