Page 5565 - Week 13 - Wednesday, 17 November 2010
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We have mentioned already the broader implications of problem gambling on family and friends, but these findings show just how big the task is for those organisations that provide support for problem gamblers and their families in the ACT. They need the proper resources to tackle these issues. The role of the Gambling and Racing Commissioner in administering the proposed new arrangements is vital. It ensures more transparency in the system than is there presently. It fits neatly into the commissioner’s existing functions under the Gambling and Racing Control Act 1999 at section 17, which include the need to monitor the social and economic effects of gambling and problem gambling in the ACT, including the need for counselling and other services.
We are all aware that there are wide ranging changes to gaming machines and gaming machine venues being considered here in the ACT and also at the federal level. A number of these changes were recommended in the Productivity Commission’s recent report and have been the subject of negotiations around the formation of the current federal government. These are significant changes and we look forward to seeing what is finally put into legislation and if the changes can further assist in addressing problem gambling.
On the question of whether or not the government should provide these services, which is something that has been raised by Mr Smyth, rather than a direct fund, firstly it must be remembered that licence holders in the ACT pay amongst the lowest rates of taxation in the country. So, yes, we could increase the government tax on poker machines and then appropriate that money out again each year for this to occur. But surely, Mr Smyth, it makes more sense to have a simple mechanism that entrusts an existing statutory authority with the role of administering a dedicated fund.
I guess what we have here is a number of changes happening at the federal level. What we want to do here in the ACT is push forward to have legislation that is going to ensure a secure funding stream for some vital services that need to be provided to a vulnerable group in our community. We need to do it in a way that is transparent and accountable, and that is at the heart of what I am putting forward in this legislation.
I have been concerned that we do not delay, but in discussions with Minister Barr and from his speech this morning there is a further need to talk about some of the details. Therefore, after we have had the in-principle speeches today we will adjourn this debate until December. It is quite clear to me that there is support. I am very disappointed that we have no support from the Canberra Liberals. I do not think that they understand the extent and the nature of this particular issue.
I urge Mr Smyth and his colleagues to go away and look at the mountain of research that is available to fully understand what is at the heart of this legislation and what we are trying to do, which is to support those who find themselves addicted to gambling. Of course, it has a terrible impact on their families—families who find that they do not have money for groceries and have to go to the local charity, families who find that their phone and electricity have been cut off because the bills have not been paid.
It is a very serious issue that we feel can be addressed more appropriately with this legislation. As I have said, there will be further discussions between now and
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