Dimming The Lights On Gambling

Illawarra Mercury

Thursday July 11, 2002

A government ban on poker machine advertising and neon lights outside NSW clubs and pubs takes effect today.

Gaming Minister Richard Face said the ban would minimise visual pollution while allowing people to walk by pubs and clubs without being enticed to gamble. ``This measure will mean that people can walk down the street without huge signs enticing them to play poker machines," Mr Face said in a statement.

``Apart from being an important harm minimisation measure of the new gaming package, it also spells an end to the proliferation of visual pollution that surrounds many of our gaming venues."

Hotels and clubs that continue to display signs face a maximum fine of $11,000.