Amendment C307 proposes to implement the outcomes of a review of the City of Melbourne’s gaming policy in the Melbourne Planning Scheme, by strengthening policy. This will ensure that electronic gaming machines are suitably located and operated as part of range of entertainment in the City, while ensuring that any social and economic impacts are also assessed.

It will make the following changes to the Planning Scheme:

Amendment C307 is supported by the reference documents; ‘City of Melbourne Electronic Gaming Machine Decision-Making Framework, 2017’, and ‘City of Melbourne Electronic Gaming Machine Review Background Report, 2017’.

Amendment C307 seeks to revise the existing local planning policy for gaming in the Melbourne Planning Scheme, in addition to amending the planning provisions for gaming premises by updating the list of shopping complexes where the installation or use of a gaming machine is prohibited.

If you are a current or prospective gaming venue operator, the revised local planning policy for gaming will inform City of Melbourne’s assessment of any planning permit application that seeks to install electronic gaming machines, or establish a new gaming venue.

Council will consider the panel report and any changes to the Planning Scheme Amendment and whether to submit a final amendment to the Minister for approval.

The Panel hearing for Planning Scheme Amendment C307 commenced on Tuesday 12 March 2019.

Panel documents:

• Panel directions and timetable issued 21 February 2019

• Panel Report Melbourne Planning Scheme Amendment C307 Gaming Policy issued 26 April 2019

Submitter evidence:

• Town Planning Expert Witness Statement for Doxa Community Club Inc
• Town Planning Expert Witness Statement for BSP Lawyers on behalf of Australian Hotels Association

Council submissions:

• City of Melbourne - Part A submission

Council evidence:

• Bonnie Rosen - Symplan on Urban and Social Planning

Gambler's Help

Gambler’s Help services are provided by a range of community organisations across metropolitan, regional and rural Victoria.

The services include online, telephone and face-to-face counselling, advice and information. There are also services tailored for Aboriginal communities, and in-language support for at-risk culturally and linguistically diverse communities.

Gambler’s Help services cover:

• counselling, including specific financial counselling
• peer support from volunteers with personal experience of gambling harm
• community education about the early signs of gambling harm and how to access support
• support for gaming venue staff so they can identify and respond to gambling harm
• integration with other health services to provide a seamless experience for people seeking support.

Phone: 1800 858 858
Website: https://gamblershelp.com.au/get-help/

Lifeline

Lifeline is a national charity providing all Australians experiencing a personal crisis with access to 24 hour crisis support and suicide prevention services.

Phone: 13 11 14
Website: https://www.lifeline.org.au/