James Packer has promised that his VIP casino in Barangaroo will be outfitted with harm minimisation measures that will curb problem gambling rates – but responsible gambling advocates in Australia are not convinced. Problem gambling experts in Australia doubt that the responsible gaming measures will protect vulnerable players at the venue.
Dr Christopher Hunt, a psychologist at University of Sydney's Gambling Treatment Clinic, takes issue with the minimum bet limits at the new casino. Crown Limited recently confirmed that the minimum wagers will be $30 for baccarat, $20 for blackjack and $25 for roulette. Dr Hunt is concerned that imposing such low minimum wagers will welcome players who are not necessarily high rollers.
Most VIP gaming rooms across Australia require players to place a minimum $50 wager per table game hand. Since Crown’s new VIP casino’s minimum is nearly half, casual gamers are likely to get involved – and they are likely to lose much more than they can afford. Whereas high rollers will not miss $500, it could be devastating for a casual player, possibly compelling them to chase their losses.
Dr Hunt is also concerned about the 24-hour ‘cooling off’ period that Crown Limited has proposed. If a player is not registered as a VIP at any other casino, they will be subjected to a 24-hour cooling off period. As such, local players who are not high rollers will have to wait a full day after they register before they can wager. Dr Hunt believes that this will only make gambling more enticing.
“It will make gambling seem more glamorous and exciting, which we know is a factor in the development of gambling problems,” he says. While Crown Limited’s initial proposal has been accepted by the NSW government, it will likely undergo some changes.
It is hoped that lawmakers will take the concerns of responsible gambling advocates into consideration and ensure that the new VIP casino in Barangaroo imposes stricter harm minimisation measures.
About the Author
