Parliament House, Canberra
28 March 2018
1:15pm
E & OE
CHRIS MAHER:
Minister, thank you again for your time.
Why has it been necessary to put this legislation into Parliament?
FIFIELD:
Well, we’ve heard the community concern about synthetic lotteries, where it’s possible to bet on the outcome of a lottery or an outcome of keno. We think that when it comes to gambling, this is a step too far. So, we will be legislating to ban synthetic lotteries.
MAHER:
Why is it a step too far?
FIFIELD:
There are a range gaming options in the community and what we need to do as a government is seek to strike a balance between the right of Australians to do the things that they want to do on the one hand, and on the other, to put in place appropriate community safeguards.
MAHER:
Can’t it be just seen though as the Government safeguarding its own tax receipts?
FIFIELD:
A number of state governments have also expressed concern about synthetic lotteries. But what we’re looking at is the community interest, newsagents, pharmacists, pubs and clubs have all expressed concerns about synthetic lotteries.
MAHER:
You mention newsagents but in truth there is a something of a split view here. That newsagents in particular in NSW and Victoria, say that this legislation will contribute to a monopoly held by Tatts in the market. What do you say in regards to that?
FIFIELD:
The overwhelming majority of newsagencies have expressed support for what we’re doing. But when it comes to the regulation of lotteries, that’s entirely a matter in the hands of state government.
MAHER:
So, isn’t it a good thing to have choice in terms of, you know, even with gambling products?
FIFIELD:
It’s up to state governments as to which organisations they license to undertake activities. What we’re doing at a Commonwealth level purely relates to online betting on the outcome of lotteries.
MAHER:
And what do you see as the timetable for this legislation?
FIFIELD:
We’re introducing the legislation into the House of Representatives today. Once it is given Royal Assent this ban will come into effect six months after that.
MAHER:
Ok. Now when do you roughly see that as occurring Minister? Any idea on that front?
FIFIELD:
Well, Parliament rises until Budget week. So, I’d be hoping that sometime over May, June we would legislate this. And then within six months the ban will come into effect.
MAHER:
That would effectively outlaw Lottoland and similar products?
FIFIELD:
The legislation will mean that no organisation can offer to Australians online betting on the outcomes of lottery and keno.
MAHER:
All right. Thank you for your time.
FIFIELD:
Thanks very much.
[ends]