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Nats Welcome Pokie Changes Delay Lobbying by The Nationals to postpone changes to community clubs has proved successful, with the State Government announcing it will postpone sweeping tax changes to community-based pokies venues. By Peter Hall - 27th June 2007 - Back to News Eastern Region MP Peter Hall said the Government had proposed to introduce the changes from next week, but the lobbying had forced the Government to put a 12 month moratorium in place to allow time for consultation with stakeholders.
"All we wanted was for the Government to undertake proper consultation with local community clubs in regions like Gippsland," Mr Hall said. "The first step towards that has been achieved, with the 12 month moratorium announced this week. Now we need to remain vigilant to ensure that the consultation process actually takes place."
Mr Hall said many clubs were fearful about the changes, which could threaten their financial viability and potentially impact on small communities in country Victoria.
The Nationals and many clubs believe the proposed changes would have impacted on what community clubs with pokies, such as sporting clubs and RSLs, were able to claim as deductions in running their clubs for community benefit and would have resulted in increased payments to the Community Support Fund. Many community clubs operate under tight budgets and, according to Mr Hall, any changes to regulations must be managed carefully to ensure their future viability.
"Now at least the clubs have a chance to be involved in the planning process and to make their point to the Government.
"Clearly the Government got it wrong and has now acknowledged that by announcing the postponement of its plans," Mr Hall added.
He said he was pleased to have some good news for the many local clubs that had contacted his office.
"We have had letters of complaint about the changes from many clubs right across the region, including from Orbost, Sale and Warragul, who want more consultation. Now we need to make sure real consultation takes place and that country towns are not disadvantaged."
Under the new proposal a new order will be made by 31 August 2007, and will come into effect on 1 July 2008.
"There is a lot of work to be done in the next few months," Mr Hall said.
Source: http://gippsland.com/ Published by: news@gippsland.com
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Shopping locally in South Gippsland strengthens our economy, supports jobs, services, and community groups. Every dollar spent locally multiplies impact, with increased spending boosting growth by millions annually. Shop Local South Gippsland. - South Gippsland Shire Council extends footpath trading permits amid system update and upcoming fee changes
South Gippsland Shire Council is updating its Footpath Trading Permit system. Current permits are automatically extended until December, with new fees applying next year. Businesses will receive updated information once finalised. - Bass Coast Sustainability Festival 2026 celebrates community creativity, and environmental care at Blue Gum Reserve, Cowes on 7 March 2026
The 2026 Bass Coast Sustainability Festival at Blue Gum Reserve, Cowes, celebrates community, creativity, and environmental care with workshops, live music, stalls, food, and special guest Craig Reucassell. - East Gippsland Mayor Jodie Ashworth urges vigilance, community support and preparedness during recent extreme heat and bushfire risks
East Gippsland Mayor acknowledges recent extreme heat, commends community responses, urges vigilance, bushfire preparedness, checking on vulnerable people, accessing support services, and using Vic Emergency app and Emergency Dashboard. - Bass Coast Shire Council celebrates local community groups’ achievements and grants at inspiring event
Bass Coast Council celebrated 92 local community groups, awarding $294,000 in grants, including $40,000 for climate projects, supporting creativity, connection, and resilience across the region at a vibrant celebration. - East Gippsland Australia Day Awards celebrate community spirit, honouring events and initiatives making meaningful impact in 2026
The 2026 East Gippsland Australia Day Awards honoured the Winter Festival and Breast Care Support Fund for fostering connection, generosity, and community spirit across the region. - Latrobe Valley residents invited to crime and community safety forum with Shadow Police Minister David Southwick
Latrobe Valley residents are invited to a free crime and community safety forum with Shadow Police Minister David Southwick on 6 November, hosted by Martin Cameron MP at the Morwell RSL. - Mayor Cr John White reflects on busy September: Sport, community, citizenship, infrastructure, and engagement across East Gippsland
September was a busy, rewarding month for East Gippsland, with community events, sports, citizenship ceremonies, infrastructure projects, policy consultations, and initiatives boosting local tourism and engagement. - Melina Bath warns rising crime under Labor threatens community safety, as offences increase, calling for stronger police support and tougher laws
Eastern Victoria MP Melina Bath warns crime rose 12.7% to 640,860 under Labor, with reduced police funding and station hours leaving Victorians unsafe, calling for stronger laws and police support. - Darren Chester commends Mac Waste Group for community commitment and support for Gippsland families
Darren Chester praised Mac Waste Group for its community commitment, local job creation, youth training initiatives, and support for Gippsland families through its partnership with the Little Jem Foundation and fundraising efforts. - Stewart Road Bridge reconstruction in Kernot approved, $1.768M federal funding restores vital community infrastructure
Bass Coast Council’s Stewart Road Bridge reconstruction in Kernot approved, receiving $1.768 million federal funding, restoring safe access, supporting local residents, industry, emergency services, with tendering expected early 2026.
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