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Pokie Industry Protests ATM Ban

“The move by one of the NAB's wealthiest clients heads a gambling industry backlash over the bank's decision to abandon 138 cash machines at venues because of concerns about problem gambling.

“The Mathieson Group – worth about $305 million – controls about 2000 poker machines in Victoria and Queensland.

“`We're already looking at other options . . . we've got banks lining up to take over,’ an angry Bruce Mathieson told the Herald Sun yesterday.

“…`If they want to pull out their ATMs they should get out of gaming, full stop. What's the difference between having an ATM in a venue and funding the entire operation?’ he said. `I want to know their stance in financing gambling operations and facilities in Australia . . . you can't have your cake and eat it.’

“The Australian Hotels Association also hit back, urging its members to reconsider any banking arrangements with the NAB.

“…The NAB says it will start withdrawing from ATMs at gaming venues from October 1.

“…Gaming Minister John Pandazopoulos welcomed the NAB move, but said the issue needed further examination…”

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