SANFL clubs believe the key component of the proposed reforms – the enforcement in all gaming machine venues of maximum $1 gaming machine bets – would put junior, community and elite football programs in jeopardy.
SANFL clubs include Central District, Glenelg, North Adelaide, Norwood, Sturt, South Adelaide, West Adelaide and Woodville West Torrens, as well as affiliated community clubs across metropolitan and regional South Australia.
SANFL CEO Jake Parkinson said its clubs supported responsible gambling and already operated in a highly regulated environment with an emphasis on minimising harm.
However, he said without any detailed financial modelling, the impact of SA Best’s gaming machine policy was unknown and could potentially force some clubs to close their doors.
"The overwhelming majority of football club patrons are not problem gamblers, but these proposed laws are likely to have dire consequences in terms of slashing club food and beverage sales, jobs and ultimately on their financial ability to deliver football programs," Mr Parkinson said.
"Gaming revenue can contribute to a community club’s total club income up to as much as 50 per cent, and these are clubs which are already stretched to their financial capacity."
Mr Parkinson also said the recent implementation of a reduction in maximum bets from $10 to $5 had been a multimillion dollar cost burden on clubs, with further mandatory technology changes to gaming machines being beyond the capacity of most football and community clubs.
North Adelaide Football Club CEO Greg Edwards said any changes to existing gaming machine regulation, including the $1 maximum bet, would negatively impact the club and the provision of grassroots junior development programs and elite talent pathways for boys and girls.
"These regulations would make it impossible for us to support our elite male and female footballers and the many and varied community programs our club is involved in," Mr Edwards said.
Sturt Football Club General Manager Business Sue Dewing said the club, like all SANFL clubs, was not-for-profit, with income invested in programs for the benefit of our members and the community.
"Decreased revenues must lead to decreased football programs and increased costs to our members and participants," Ms Dewing said.
"Volunteers already face significant strain and reducing current income from gaming machines will place even more demands onto our volunteers."
Paula Brinkworth, SANFL Senior Media and Communications Advisor on 0414 805 153 or [email protected]
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