Poker Machine Wars: Social Responsibility and Marketing

Abstract

The paper discusses the "business" of poker machines in Australian clubs and hotels, and the role that marketing has played in this controversial issue. In particular, the paper focuses on the current public debate surrounding poker machines, their social impact and the role of the Federal Government in regulating poker machine gambling. First, the paper discusses the role of marketing in promoting poker machine gambling. Then the paper moves to analyse the role of key stakeholders, including gambling venues, sporting associations and the gamblers themselves. Finally the paper raises relevant questions that need to be addressed in order for an informed debate to occur.