Darcy Byrne, the Labor mayor of Sydney's Inner West council, is spearheading a grassroots movement to curb gambling harm in New South Wales, including a push to reduce the number of poker machines in licensed clubs. His efforts come as the federal Labor party faces criticism over its commitment to online gambling reform.
Comparing pokies lobby to the NRA
Byrne, a rising Labor star, spoke to Guardian Australia political editor Tom McIlroy about his comparison of the poker machine lobby to the US National Rifle Association. He argues that both industries wield disproportionate influence over policy, resisting reforms that could reduce harm.
Success at NSW Labor conference
At this month's NSW Labor conference, Byrne successfully moved a motion on gambling policy for the next state election. The motion signals a tougher stance on pokies, reflecting growing momentum for reform within the party and the community.
Byrne stated, "We've had a gutful of politicians failing to act on harm from the pokies. This is a critical moment for NSW Labor." His leadership highlights the increasing pressure on the state government to address gambling addiction, which affects thousands of families.
Community momentum and federal criticism
The grassroots push for pokies reform is gaining traction, with advocates arguing that surging pokies revenue proves NSW Labor has failed to reduce gambling harm as promised. Byrne's motion at the conference is seen as a step toward meaningful change, though critics say more action is needed.
Byrne's comparison of the pokies lobby to the NRA underscores the perceived intransigence of the industry. He calls for a reduction in the number of poker machines, which currently number over 86,000 in NSW clubs and pubs, contributing to significant social harm.
