Council fails to support those in financial hardship

Council has voted against motions put by Greens Councillor Geraldine Brooks that would help those suffering financial stress in our community.

“Not one Councillor would second an alternative budget motion to lift the rate rebate for those experiencing financial hardship and not one councillor would support a motion to increase the rates for commercial gaming venues which profit from the destruction of families and our community” said Cr. Brooks.

Gaming is a significant community problem in Brimbank which affects the entire community, not just problem gamblers. Gambling related problems are mainly associated with Electronic Gaming Machines (EGMs) and gaming losses are now the most severe of any municipality in the state. A differential rate levied on this sort of antisocial activity is one method of integrating Council’s policy position to make it less attractive for venues to profit from EGM's in our municipality.

It is Councils job to use differential rates where appropriate to achieve enhanced economic, social and environmental outcomes.