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ATMs Pulled from Australia's Pokie Venues9 June 2003AUSTRALIA – As reported by the Australian: “Australia’s biggest bank will withdraw its automatic teller machines from pokies venues over concerns about problem gambling. “The National Australia Bank will sever ties with 138 cash machines at gaming parlours across Australia from October 1. “Its ATM withdrawal limits of $200 per transaction - already enforced in Victoria - have also been extended nationally for the duration of existing leases. “…NAB corporate relations manager Tim O'Leary said: `The great majority of people who use those ATMs are not problem gamblers. But we're listening to the community and recognise that problem gambling is an issue.’ “…Responsible-gambling campaigner the Rev Tim Costello, who chairs the bank's community consultation forum, said the NAB move was a significant breakthrough in protecting the nation's estimated 290,000 problem gamblers. “…The bank owns and operates 18 branded ATMs in Australian gaming venues and controls another 120 franchised cash machines. “…The NAB pull-out means venue operators will be forced to find another provider to manage the ATMs…” |