person playing poker

Labor backs pokies limits

A NEW statewide player card gaming system with pre-commitment and cashless gaming for pokies in casinos, pubs and clubs will be introduced by 2024 after the Labor Party supported last week’s shock decision by the government.

Treasurer Michael Ferguson said he planned to legislate so players would be required to register for a card at any venue. The default limits will be: $100 per day; $500 per month; and $5000 per year.’’

Labor Finance spokesman Dean Winter said card-based play was an important component of Tasmanian Labor’s gaming policy. “Labor secured the amendment which directed the (Tasmanian Gaming) Commission to investigate the effectiveness and implementation of card-based play during the Parliamentary debate last year,’’ Mr Winter said.

“This is a significant and complicated change, which is highlighted by its two-year implementation timeline.”