Casino news source: ABC - http://abc.net.au
Casino deal will create more 'problem' gamblers: NSW Greens
Posted Wed Oct 31, 2007 1:25pm AEDT
Updated Wed Oct 31, 2007 2:04pm AEDT
The Star City Casino
The New South Wales Greens have criticised the State Government for not using its casino negotiations to increase the two per cent levy on revenue, which is used to fund programs for problem gamblers.
The Government announced yesterday it had reached an exclusive licence agreement with Star City's operator, Tabcorp, worth $100 million.
The casino has also agreed to a higher tax rate, which is expected to deliver an extra $25 million a year to the Government by 2013.
In return, the casino will be able to apply for more than 100 extra gaming tables and expand gaming rooms for international players.
A spokesman for Treasurer Michael Costa says while the "responsible gambling" levy is unchanged, the amount it raises will increase along with the casino's revenues.
But Greens MP Lee Rhiannon says Star City's expansion is likely to lead to many more problem gamblers.
"Every time you expand gambling opportunities, which these negotiations have delivered to Star City casino, [it means] more poker machines, more gaming tables, there will be an increase in problem gambling," she said.
"We need much more money to ensure that the hardship that gambling brings is reduced at every opportunity." |
|
World Casino Directory 
Gambling Forums 
