Anglicare Tasmania’s response to the Tasmanian Government’s announcement on gambling harm reduction
January 23, 2026
Today’s announcement of a small number of gambling harm reduction measures would have very limited effectiveness, says Anglicare Tasmania.
“We’re disappointed to say the least – and urge the government to put the Tasmanian community first, and do more,” said CEO Chris Jones.
“We acknowledge that a reduction in venue opening hours will be helpful for those people who find it difficult to limit the time they spend gambling.
“However, none of the measures announced today will prevent harm from occurring in the first place, which is what the Tasmanian community desperately needs,” he said.
Dr Jones said that only a mandatory card with pre-set loss limits – as recommended by the Tasmanian Liquor and Gaming Commission – provides the gold standard response to gambling harm.
“It’s the only mechanism that would provide people with an effective budgeting tool so that they can control the amount of money they can afford to lose,” he said.
“We know from our research and from our frontline workers that this would have enormous flow-on benefits to the entire Tasmanian community – and it would save lives.
“The government must keep the door open for stronger, more effective harm minimisation measures to be introduced,” said Dr Jones.
“In the meantime, we continue to encourage any Tasmanians affected by gambling harm to reach out to the Gamblers Help service on 1800 243 232 for friendly and confidential support.”
More information
Read this policy brief on why the poker machine card is the gold standard in harm prevention.
