Self-exclusion programs aim to keep problem gamblers out of casinos and gaming clubs; however, MP Andrew Wilkie feels that Australian self-exclusion programs are not working hard enough to hold up their end of the bargain.

After problem gambler from Tasmanian revealed that he had been allowed to gamble $3000 away after signing up to four self-exclusion programs, Wilkie argues that clubs should receive strict penalties for failing to keep problem gamblers out. In an interview with The Mercury, the 60-year-old problem gambler stated that he had signed up to self-exclusion programs at four different casinos in Tasmania.

Three of the four venues managed to turn him away, but the fourth allowed him to enter a number of times, despite its staff being well-aware of his addiction. "The idea of getting yourself excluded is to help you stop gambling, and they're not helping,” he says. MP Andrew Wilkie uses the case as an example of how the local self-exclusion system is ineffective.

He maintains that more needs to be done in order to keep self-excluded gamblers away from casinos, arguing that gambling venues should be subjected to stricter penalties for failing to do so. While they currently face fines of up to $13 000, Wilkie claims that more needs to be one in order to ensure that casinos and gaming clubs keep problem gamblers out.

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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.