In a shocking news, Tasmania, Australia’s island, recently termed poker illegal except in licensed casinos. As a result, popular leagues like Tasmanian Poker League (TPL) and Australian Poker League (APL) cannot host events. In fact, any poker game outside a legal casino has become an offence. The state took the decision following a consultation with Tasmanian Liquor & Gaming Commission (TLGC).
Tasmania, which was the first state to legalize gambling, has now become the first one to outlaw poker across the state except at legal casinos. This move comes at a time when a large number of the Australians are grappling with gambling addiction. The cash buy-ins has been banned outside casinos, prompting clubs and pubs to come up with a solution – players can buy merchandise as their buy-in.
The TLGC stopped this practice too, leaving thousands of players in despair. As a result, the TPL decided to cancel their freeroll where there was no buy-in. “The clubs and pubs also make money from food and beverage sales, and the TLGC’s decision will cause an economic ripple at perhaps the worst time of the year,” said Craig Abernethy, founder of the Australian Poker Schedule website.
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