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Clearly, gambling problems are prevalent
amongst club patrons. While the prevalence rates
found in this study are not representative of
the population, it is of great concern that
twofifths
of patrons who happened to be on club premises
and agreed to participate in the on-site
survey when it was conducted have experienced
problems with their gambling in the
previous 12 months.
! There is a tendency amongst some clubs to
adhere to only the minimum responsible
gambling requirements. Voluntary practices that
transcend the law appear to be less widely
practised. Many of these relate to the
environment in gambling areas, including having
windows, adequate lighting, and encouraging
breaks in play. Others relate to promotions that
provide strong inducements to gamble. Another is
signage on self-exclusion and local
counselling services. Clearly, without the
incentive of legislation, some responsible
gambling
practices will be ignored by some gambling
venues.
! Further, some clubs appear not to be compliant
even with some legal obligations in
responsible gambling, specifically relating to
allowing minors and intoxicated people in
gambling areas. Yet, these are measures that
people consider as very important in
encouraging responsible gambling.
! Given the above points, there remains quite
some scepticism about whether the clubs are
truly embracing responsible gambling and
practising effective patron care. While many
responsible gambling measures have been
implemented, other venue practices are perceived
as very much against the spirit of responsible
gambling (e.g. promotions, ATMs very close to
vii
gaming areas, gambling room features that
discourage responsible gambling), and are
therefore detracting from the positive efforts
made.
! There is widespread concern amongst club
patrons about problem gambling and they
generally support the responsible gambling
efforts so far.
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