Media Release: Delay in Pokies Card Requires Immediate Introduction of Evidence-based Harm Reduction Measures

Delay in Pokies Card Requires Immediate Introduction of Evidence-based Harm Reduction Measures

3 July 2024

Independent Member for Nelson Meg Webb today called on the Government to immediately introduce further evidence-based harm reduction measures with the announcement of a disappointing delay to the introduction of a card-based system for poker machines in Tasmania,

“It is worth taking the time needed to get the nation-leading card-based system right, but there is no excuse to neglect other evidence-based measures that can be put in place to cut harm now,” Ms Webb said.

“Every month we continue to see Tasmanians experiencing high losses to poker machines, well above pre-COVID levels.

“There was a further $15.7 million lost in May – and we know that around half of those losses come from people who are addicted.”

Ms Webb said another year’s delay means another $190 million dollars in losses flowing out of our most vulnerable suburbs through deliberately addictive machines.

“It’s unacceptable for Minister Street and the State Government to stand by and do nothing meaningful for a further 12 months while Tasmanian families suffer the harm caused by addiction to poker machines.

“The evidence is clear. We know what will work to cut harm immediately – lower bet limits and slower spin speeds, which are simple programming adjustments.

“It is laudable the Government has reiterated a strong commitment to poker machine harm reduction, but that must be backed up with credible action, not just industry-promoted initiatives decried by the experts.”

Ms Webb said the Tasmanian Liquor and Gaming Commission made it crystal clear that facial recognition technology is not an appropriate or effective harm reduction measure for Tasmania and poses considerable privacy concerns.

“There will be negligible benefit from additional promotion of the Gambling Exclusion Scheme, because it is the ambulance at the bottom of the hill for a limited number of people at the most extreme stage of their addiction.

“The Government should focus instead on preventing harm for all Tasmanians using poker machines, and put measures in place to effectively limit the devastating impact of their harm on individuals, families, friends, workmates and communities impacted by this insidious addiction.”