By Ian Neubauer
Victorian Premier John Brumby yesterday announced all gaming machines in the state will require new mechanisms by 2010 that give players the option to pre-commit the amount of time and money spent on machines.
“The new standard will reduce gambling-related harm by allowing players to decide how much they’re willing to gamble, or how much time they want to spend on the machines before they begin playing,” Brumby said.
“These new measures give Victorians the option to make better decisions about how much they can afford to spend and how long they want to spend in a gaming venue.”
Tabcorp, which operates 13,750 of the state’s 30,000 gaming machines, called on the Victorian Government to provide certainty around the future industry structure given the investment and lead time required to implement new technologies to facilitate coming restrictions.
The Tatts Group, which operates an additional 13,750 gaming machines in the state, could not be reached for comment.
Melbourne’s Crown Casino, which is licensed to operate 2500 gaming machines, will be exempt from placing the coming restriction on some machines in its exclusive high-rollers room.