Brimbank council is seeking confirmation that parts of the Victorian Responsible Gambling Code of Conduct are working effectively.
Cr John Hedditch tabled a motion at last week’s council meeting, proposing the council write to state Gaming and Liquor Regulation Minister Marlene Kairouz to seek clarification.
“We hear rumors around our local community of people going into pubs and clubs and being given free drinks and so on,” Cr Hedditch said.
“We don’t know if these are true, but we’re looking for assurance that the act is adequate to prevent these practices.
“We’ve heard rumors through Parliament that there are people who are being incentivised to consume more liquor and punt more on poker machines, so this particular resolution seeks advice as to see what is in place.”
Cr Hedditch was referring to claims by independent federal MP Andrew Wilkie, who claimed to have proof some gambling venue staff had shared gambling and drinking habits of problem gamblers.
The motion proposes that the council seek advice on the measures being taken in Victoria to ensure electronic gaming machine venues are complying with the Victorian Responsible Gambling Code of Conduct. It will also voice the council’s concerns over the code’s ability to adequately prevent exploitative practices.
