Great news for problem gamblers and families in Victoria as the state government has announced strict new measures to combat the prevalence of pokies addiction. Starting next month, all pokies machines in Victoria will be required to shut down for six hours a day, from 2am to 8am.
The decision comes after years of advocacy from anti-gambling groups and individuals who have witnessed the devastating effects of pokies addiction on families and communities. According to a recent study, Victoria has the highest per capita spending on pokies in Australia, with over $2.7 billion lost to these machines each year.
The new regulations aim to reduce the accessibility of pokies during the most vulnerable hours of the day, when problem gamblers are most likely to be tempted to seek out a quick fix. While the shutdown will only be in effect during the early morning hours, experts believe that it will significantly reduce the harm caused by pokies addiction.
In addition to the daily shutdown, the government has also announced a series of other measures to regulate the pokies industry in Victoria. This includes a cap on the number of machines allowed in each venue, as well as mandatory pre-commitment schemes to help players set limits on their spending.
Despite the backlash from the gambling industry, which argues that the new regulations will hurt businesses and result in job losses, the government remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting the public from the harmful effects of pokies addiction. Premier Daniel Andrews has emphasized that the well-being of Victorians is the top priority, and that the new measures are necessary to address the growing issue of problem gambling in the state.
Anti-gambling activists have welcomed the new regulations, noting that they are a crucial step towards creating a safer and more responsible gambling environment in Victoria. They hope that other states will follow suit and implement similar measures to address the widespread issue of pokies addiction across Australia.
As the shutdown of pokies machines during the early morning hours goes into effect next month, families and communities in Victoria can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that their loved ones will have a better chance at overcoming the grip of pokies addiction. It is a small victory in the fight against problem gambling, but a significant one that could pave the way for a brighter future for all Victorians.
