Kate Burton

My husband, Andrew Wilkie, announced in March this year that he'd stand as an independent at the next State election in Tasmania, for his local seat of Denison. The election is expected in March 2010.

A couple of weeks ago the State Labor Government advertised its involvement in Responsible Gambling Awareness Week and a minister attended the launch at - where else? - the Casino. Andrew trotted along to make a couple of relevant points. For example, the Government refuses to implement most of the harm minimisation measures recommended by its own Gaming Commission in October last year. And that thousands of Tasmanians every year are adversely affected by poker machines, either because of their own addiction or that of someone close to them. Yet the State Government receives millions of dollars every year in gaming revenue.

Why doesn't it do more? Simple - the Government is the real pokies addict. Have a look at the 'campaign 2010' page for more.