Clampdown on pokies set to sway big spenders

NEW SOUTH WALES, Australia -- Proposed government changes, on foot of research conducted in a nationwide gambling survey, may impact NSW pub owners, The Sydney Morning Herald is reporting.

The proposed rule will limit the amount of money that can be put into pokie machines, the SMH reported.

The present situation where gamblers can insert 100 $100 bills if they wish before play begins will now switch to $20, according to the Sydney Morning Herald.

The changes bring New South Wales into line with other territories, the report said.