A discussion document has been released today seeking views about the issues and challenges of gaming machine (pokie) funding and ideas about how things might be improved.
Read the Minister of Internal Affairs media release
The discussion document is part of a review of the framework for managing Class 4 gambling to determine whether the current framework remains fit-for-purpose. The aim of the review is to look at the long-term sustainability and effectiveness of community funding and the cost-effectiveness of regulating the sector; without any growth in gambling and minimising harm from gambling. The Department has consulted with key sector groups, including societies, clubs and Class 4 venues, problem gambling service providers and representatives of groups which received grants funding, about what should be included in this discussion document.
Although Class 4 expenditure has increased since 2014, the amount of money spent on pokies and the amount of grant funds available for distribution to community organisations has decreased since the introduction of the Gambling Act in 2003.
Your views are now being sought on how the above aims could best be achieved. Submissions close on Friday 12 August 2016.
Read the discussion document
Following this date, the Department will consider a wide range of options, informed by submissions received on the discussion document and further targeted consultation with key stakeholders. The Minister will report back to Cabinet at the end of 2016 with recommendations on how to progress the review.
If you have any questions or comments regarding the gambling review discussion document, please email them to gamblingreview@dia.govt.nz
