Mitchell Shire councillors will met on Tuesday, March 12 to decide whether or not to support a proposed increase in the number of licensed gaming machines in the district.
The news comes after Hogan’s Hotel in Wallan requested permission from the Victorian Commission of Gaming of Liquor Regulation (VCGLR) to add another 20 pokies to its gaming room.
ALSO READ: ONLINE CASINOS IN AUSTRALIA
If approved, that would take the total number of machines at the hotel from 45 to 65.
The hearing for that application is scheduled to take place on April 2, until which time the council and its residents have the opportunity to voice support or opposition to the move.
“While Mitchell Shire Council is not a decision-making authority for this matter, we do have an opportunity to make a submission and will be considering that at the special council meeting,” said Bill Chisholm, Mayor of Mitchell Shire.
“I also encourage community members to view the application and consider making a submission to show their support or concern.
“Submissions need to be made directly with the commission.”
Gamblers in Mitchell Shire lost more than $18 million on pokies games in the last financial year at a rate of $574 per adult – well above the state average.