Sydney’s most profitable pokie venues tap millions in discounts under Labor’s nightlife reforms
The New South Wales government is facing criticism for its nightlife reform policy, which provides liquor licensing discounts to venues that host live music. Critics argue that these incentives primarily benefit large gaming venues with poker machines rather than supporting the grassroots arts sector.
Why it matters
It highlights the tension between government efforts to revitalize nightlife and the unintended consequences of subsidizing businesses that rely on gambling revenue.
Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items.
Remove items from your saved list to add more.
Share A A A At 8.30pm on a Thursday at one of the state’s most profitable gaming venues, country artist Craig Woodward sings covers on a stage in the corner of the members’ lounge before dozens of seated audience members.
The artists’ stage at Campbelltown Catholic Club is about the size of six gaming machines. The venue has 445.
Arts, Music and Night-time Economy Minister John Graham told the Herald in a September interview: “My view is pokies did kill pub rock.” Matt Willis It’s one of the hundreds of Sydney pokie clubs, hotels and pubs tapping millions in discounts on liquor licensing fees and receiving extra trading hours in exchange for offering live music under Labor’s so-called vibrancy reforms.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in