LIQUOR AND GAMBLING APPROVALS

In reply to Mr GRIFFITHS (Goyder) (8 October 2010).

The Hon. A. KOUTSANTONIS (West Torrens—Minister for Industry and Trade, Minister for Correctional Services, Minister for Gambling): I am advised that each application is treated on its merits and the average timeframe for an application from a person who has not been approved previously, is six weeks providing that all documentation has been supplied, fingerprints have been taken and there are no fit and proper person issues.

There are applications that are still underdetermined and beyond the control of the Liquor and Gambling Commissioner. Delays in processing applications occur when the application forms are incomplete, or when applicants fail to undertake fingerprinting in a timely manner. Applicants are advised of this requirement at the time of lodging the application.

The Office of the Liquor and Gambling Commissioner (OLGC) actions all new applications within five business days of receipt, by either contacting the applicant for more information or forwarding the application to South Australia Police. This process ensures that the applicant is a fit and proper person, as required by the Gaming Machines Act 1992.

The OLGC does not report on the average time taken for applications.