Australia
Urged to Tighten Gambling Laws
As reported by the Australia
Age: "The Bracks Government is being urged
to tighten gambling laws after complaints gamblers
have obtained credit at gaming venues by using overdrafts
on their home loans and cash advances on department
store credit cards.
"Gambling reform advocates yesterday told
The Age the Victorian Commission for Gambling Regulation
had been aware of the practice for months but had
failed to get the laws strengthened or penalise
venue operators.
"Obtaining cash through credit cards at gaming
venues was banned in Victoria in 2002. But gambling
reform advocates say the definition of credit is
too narrow if people are still able to use their
overdrafts and department store hire-purchase cards
to withdraw cash at gaming venues. Withdrawals from
saving accounts are limited to $200 per transaction
in gaming venues.
"Manager of Gamblers Help northern network,
Julie Nelson, said some problem gamblers had used
their overdrafts to obtain cash at gaming venues.
"…Two complaints regarding the accessing
of credit at gaming venues have been made to the
regulator…"
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