Michael Ferguson,Minister for Finance
With casinos, pubs and clubs closed due to strict measures to contain the coronavirus outbreak, now is not the time to progress the Government’s Future Gaming Markets policy.
The Government remains committed to reforming gaming in Tasmania, ending the monopoly and ensuring a sustainable industry, which provides choice, minimises harm and provides an appropriate return to government to fund essential services.
Thank you to all who have responded to the first round of consultation on the policy. These responses will be taken into consideration when consideration of the policy resumes.
The gaming sector along with the entire tourism and hospitality sector is hurting as State and Federal Governments close venues as they respond to the Covid-19 threat. We acknowledge the contribution made by these sectors and their employees and are mindful of the impact venue closures is having on their lives and livelihoods.
The Government’s policy will be progressed when the time is right.
