ABC News Online: The Australian Bankers Association said last week it is happy to discuss limiting ATM withdrawals in pubs and clubs to help fight problem gambling. However, the association was quick to point out that its member banks are only small players. The association said there are 7,500 ATMs owned by the country's four major banks, and less than 200 ATMs in the country are located in gaming venues.
The Australian Hotels Association last week also commented on the issue, saying that careful consideration needs to be given to the idea of limiting ATM access at poker machine venues. AHA said ATMs in many local pubs provide the only way to access cash in some areas. (Read ABC News report: ATMs needed at pubs and clubs, AHA says.)
Read also, Australian government to set rules for casino ATMs.
