Greens MP Lee Rhiannon has called on the Premier Nathan Rees to withdraw a government bill that considerably loosens regulation of the Star City Casino and grants it further opportunities to boost profits.

Ms Rhiannon says the move risks escalating crime and problem gambling at the casino. She says it also suggests an unhealthy relationship between the NSW ALP and two of its biggest donors, Star City Casino and Tabcorp, which have donated $448,827 over the last decade (p. 3, SMH, 19 June 2009).

by Greens MP Lee Rhiannon

The numerous media reports from this analysis further underlines the need for far-reaching reform of electoral funding laws.

Sydney Council Liberals keep public in the dark on political donations

by Robert Burton Bradley Central 24 April 2009

Sydney Liberal councillor Shayne Mallard has avoided disclosing any personal political donations for last year’s council election, by following his party’s policy of channelling all donations through the head office.

Greens MP and health spokesperson Lee Rhiannon has called on Opposition Leader Barry O'Farrell to stop taking money from the clubs movement to avoid the perception that his party's policies on gambling will be skewed by political donations (page 5, Sydney Morning Herald 24 April 2009).

Mr O'Farrell's submission to the federal gambling inquiry, which promotes clubs and ignores problem gambling, suggests that the clubs movement has his ear," Ms Rhiannon said.