Gambling harm
David ETTERSHANK (Western Metropolitan) (12:21): My question is directed to the Minister for Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation in the other place. Gambling-related harms amongst some of our most disadvantaged Victorians remain unacceptably high despite recent reforms. The City of Brimbank is the second-most disadvantaged LGA in Melbourne and also has the highest electronic gaming machine losses of any LGA in the state, with a staggering $172 million lost on the pokies over the previous year – that is $475,000 every day. Mandatory closing hours for venues from 4 am to 10 am do not go far enough, as evidence clearly shows that the most harm is likely to be suffered by those playing between midnight and 2 am. So I ask: will the government introduce mandatory closing times from midnight to 10 am for venues to reduce the extraordinary harms experienced by problem gamblers in my electorate?
Lizzie BLANDTHORN (Western Metropolitan – Minister for Children, Minister for Disability) (12:23): I thank Mr Ettershank for his question, which I will refer in accordance with the standing orders to the relevant minister in the other place.
David ETTERSHANK (Western Metropolitan) (12:23): I thank the minister for passing that on. Gambling organisations and electronic gaming venues receive an 8.33 per cent tax break under the proviso that this money is spent on the community and for the community’s benefit. Analysis of the industry’s community contribution shows that there are limited demonstrable benefits to the community under this arrangement and that the overall value of contributions is often inflated. A 2023 PAEC inquiry recommended the government consider scrapping the existing community benefit arrangements and redirecting the 8.33 per cent to a publicly managed fund targeted at preventing and reducing gambling-related harm, which the government supports in principle. I ask: when will the government implement this recommendation?
Lizzie BLANDTHORN (Western Metropolitan – Minister for Children, Minister for Disability) (12:24): Thank you, Mr Ettershank. I will, again, refer your supplementary to the relevant minister in the other place.