Expert panel to reduce gaming red tape

Premier Campbell Newman has today announced the appointment of an expert panel to address the overload of red tape strangling the liquor and gaming industry.

Mr Newman said appointing the panel was part of the Government’s Six Month Action Plan and members would play a key role in cutting regulatory burden on business.

“At the recent DestinationQ forum, industry made it clear that new initiatives were needed to build Queensland tourism to help get the economy back on track,” Mr Newman said.

“Liquor and gaming is the lifeblood of the tourism industry but has long been ignored by the Labor Government and our economy has suffered.

“We have made sure this panel gives key players a chance to finally weigh in on discussions about the major issues affecting the industry.

“Liquor and gaming has been held back by red tape and regulation which burned time and money for no real benefit.

“This review is good news for industry and shows we are committed to reducing waste, cutting costs and making life easier for business.”

Attorney-General Jarrod Bleijie said a number of changes had already been identified which would allow business to get on with the job.

“We have scrapped employee gaming licences which were in place to prevent people interfering with games,” Mr Bleijie said.

“Ignoring advances in gaming technology, the Labor Government expected employees to hold a licence and renew it every five years for $215, which is just ludicrous.

“The Liquor and Gaming Commission will also be replaced by a Commissioner which will speed up the process and eliminate unnecessary costs and duplications.

“Liquor and gaming licence applications will no longer need to be advertised in the Government Gazette and local newspapers, saving businesses up to $1,500.

“These changes are about easing the cost burden on our pubs and clubs, while also maintaining a high level of integrity and accountability within the industry.”

Other proposed changes include:

• The removal of a requirement for clubs to report changes to the board within a week
• The introduction of cashless ticket-in, ticket-out technology on gaming machines
• The removal of the renewal requirement for clubs and hotel gaming machine licences, saving $435 per applicant.

Panel members include:

[ENDS] 20 September 2012

Media contacts

Premier’s office (07) 3224 4500

Attorney-General’s office: (07) 3247 9068