Kids play gets more pokies
A Langwarrin hotel has just been granted permission to install 10 more pokies – but it’s on strict conditions.
The Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation (VCGLR) ruled the Langwarrin Hotel can increase its number of slot machines from 52 to 62. But in a decision that has stunned opponents of the development, it ruled that the pub had to first of all build a $1 million playground for children.
The VCGLR found that installing more slot machines was unlikely to increase addictive behaviour.
However, it was likely to boost recreational betting.
“The potential benefit to the Langwarrin community to utilise a weatherproofed facility that does not already exist within the area to be reasonably significant in the circumstances,” the VFGLR ruled.
“Creation of separate spaces for all age groups will allow children of all ages to utilise the facility, which will in turn encourage more families to make use of the premises during the day.”
The Langwarrin Hotel told the VCGLR that it would make annual contributions of at least $10,000 to Theodora House, a food bank charity in Langwarrin. It said it would also donate $80,000 in contributions already made to community organisations throughout Frankston.
The decision has stunned Casey and Frankston councils which had opposed the pokies expansion plan claiming it would increase problem gambling in the area.
Anti-gambling campaigner Tim Costello said putting a community hub and playground with pokies was “irresponsible’’
“It's as sensible as saying let’s create a social hub where people are using cocaine. It is morally irresponsible and the gaming regulator should resign,’’ Mr Costello told the Herald Sun.
Greens MP Colleen Hartland said the minister for gaming should intervene, claiming that the gaming regulator was rubber stamping the industry and not protecting the community.
But the Victorian government claims the decision was made by an independent body and not under the control of the gambling minister Jane Garrett.
By Leon Gettler, April 21st 2016
