Gambling Revenue Set To Rise

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Next year will see the government raise $70m in gaming revenue

Online poker fans and casino visitors in Australia will ultimately boost the state's funds by $70 million in 2013.

That is according to figures recently published by The Australian, which showed that the government's latest forecasts predict that revenue raised from gambling will increase by around 4.6 per cent each year over the next four years.

The figures come as the country's pokie reform debate rumbles on, with certain quarters calling for pre-commitment technology to be introduced to curb problem gambling.

However, gaming minister George Souris told the news provider: "The majority of the public that gamble do so responsibly as part of their pursuit of entertainment, and within their means.

"A small number of persons who gamble are susceptible to problem gambling behaviours or are at risk to such behaviour."

It comes as billionaire entrepreneur James Packer seeks to improve the casino facilities on offer around the country by teaming up with Genting.