Press Release

In-line gambling taxes a good idea [20.06.05]

The Problem Gambling Foundation of New Zealand (PGF) supports in principle the proposal of bringing the racing tax in line with casino tax.

"Racing on the face of it, has been treated unfairly in respect to casinos," says Richard Northey, Chair of PGF.

"This has nothing to do with morality. It is about demonstrated harm," says Mr Northey.

This comes after recent political debate that National will align the tax on racing with that on casinos.

"Without a doubt, the casinos create much more harm to society as there is a cool-off period, so to speak, between races.

"Casinos, on the other hand, provide opportunities for continuous gambling which can cause continuous harm," he says.

"We would support an adjustment of the tax on racing downwards and casinos upwards so that they are both fairly treated. They both need to contribute fairly to meet the Government's and society's costs of dealing with the demonstrated harm that all forms of problem gambling - particularly the pokies - cause."

ENDS

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