A win on gambling for NSW families

For immediate relase

The NSW Council of Churches has written to Premier Barry O’Farrell congratulating his Government for its support of an inquiry into the social impact of gambling.

The inquiry, to be chaired by the Reverend Fred Nile, will focus on the design and regulation of electronic gaming machines, access to cash and credit in and around gaming venues, the regulation of telephone and internet gambling services and gambling advertising, and the adequacy and effectiveness of problem gambling help services, public health measures to reduce risk of gambling harm, and strategies and models for consumer protection.

The President of the NSW Council of Churches, the Reverend Dr Ross Clifford, said he was delighted to hear that the NSW Legislative Council had appointed a Select Committee to inquire into these matters.

“All NSW political parties supported the motion for the inquiry and so the Upper House unanimously passed the motion. This is a significant development in addressing a range of perceived problems associated with gambling,” Dr Clifford said.

NSW has around 50 per cent of the nation’s poker machines, and more problem gamblers than any other state. NSW also has a stable government, strong political voices representing healthy and informed discussion, and the numbers needed to achieve historic gambling reform. Given the lack of political resolve at a federal level, it is crucial that NSW take the lead on sensible gambling reform.

“This is a win for NSW families and citizens. We look forward with interest to the Select Committee handing down its findings and recommendations,” he said.

Media contact Rod Benson 0412 421 678