SCOTT BACON - Opposition Spokesmans for Tourism and Hospitality and Memory Expert
Opposition report
It wouldn’t make sense to write this regular article about something other than Labor’s policy to phase poker machines out of pubs and clubs by 2023. I understand that some of you do not support the position that Labor has taken on this issue. But that does not mean we do not want to continue to work with THA on many other areas of policy now and into the future. The decision to phase out poker machines from towns and suburbs by 2023 was made after thorough consultation, including with many THA members. Labor MPs unanimously decided that the evidence of the social harm caused by gambling on poker machines in pubs and clubs was too compelling to ignore. Labor is under no illusion that our policy will cure all problem gambling in Tasmania. But evidence shows that the vast majority of problem gambling occurs through poker machines. We were faced with a decision to entrench the status quo, or to work with venues to transition to new business models. Labor is the only party that is committed to assisting venues through the transition. We’ve put a $55 million support package on the table.
That’s $55 million of new investment into the hospitality industry to help businesses create new sources of revenue. It could go to extensions, refurbishments, energy efficiency initiatives or ideas from outside the square. No one is disputing that poker machines are an important source of revenue for the businesses who have them but we want to help pubs and clubs find new, reliable sources of revenue. Activities that send customers home happy every time they visit your pub. By working with businesses and directly with workers, Labor is confident that job losses can be avoided. Importantly all employees will be provided retraining and professional development in recognition of the fact that people’s roles and responsibilities may change as businesses transition to new models. Beyond 2023, when the money previously spent on poker machines is directed to other parts of the economy, we strongly believe the effect on employment will be positive. No matter what your opinion on the issues are, Labor together with the THA are ready to work with you.
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February 2018 www.australianhotels.asn.au licence@apra.com.au | 1300 852 388 | apraamcos.com.au
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