A major victory has been secured for those in the Munno Para area opposed to gaming machines, with The Parkway Tavern’s application for 40 machines rejected.

The decision follows strong opposition from nearly 40 objectors, including local schools, advocacy groups and concerned citizens.

The proposed venue is located on The Parkway, Munno Para – near the Playford Town Centre, a community park and Mark Oliphant College.

The Playford region is widely recognised as one of South Australia’s most economically disadvantaged.

In its formal decision, Consumer and Business Services’ Assistant Director of Licensing Zoe Thomas ruled that approving the licence posed an "unacceptable risk" to the community.

Ms Thomas noted that the Playford region ranks among the most socioeconomically disadvantaged areas in South Australia, with household incomes significantly lower than the state average.

The ruling cited that the net gaming revenue per machine in Playford already exceeds the state average, reinforcing fears that additional gaming options would fuel gambling-related harm.

"The Gaming application sends alarm bells ringing," Ms Thomas’ statement read.

“I am of the view that approving the Gaming Machine Licence with an entitlement to 40 gaming machines in this locality poses an unacceptable risk and is not in the community interest.”

Tony Piccolo MP submitted an objection along with the Uniting Communities, Relationships Australia and Anglicare.

While his submission indicated there was no opposition to the development of the tavern itself, the concerns related solely to the introduction of gambling machines.

"The proposed venue would exacerbate economic and social issues for local residents," Mr Piccolo’s submission outlined.

"Data shows that the Playford region already has 10 gaming venues operating over 360 machines, collectively generating over $53 million in net gaming revenue last financial year—figures that continue to rise despite economic pressures."

Mr Piccolo's submission further highlighted that local small businesses would suffer from lost discretionary spending, with gaming machines diverting funds away from the community.

Research from the SA Centre for Economic Studies supported concerns that gambling revenue is largely extracted from the area rather than reinvested in local businesses.

Mark Oliphant College formally opposed the application, raising concerns about its proximity to their 1,700 students.

A presentation from gambling reform advocate Mark Henley further illustrated the venue's layout, showing that 25% of the proposed space was allocated to gaming machines.

Gambling Health Services and Anglicare also provided expert insights, with their submissions pointing to research demonstrating that accessibility to gaming venues increases financial hardship, mental health concerns and problem gambling—issues that disproportionately affect lower-income communities.

Mr Piccolo said, “this outcome protects families, businesses and the community from further harm.”

"It reinforces the importance of placing people ahead of gambling profits."

As the decision stands, the proposed tavern may proceed—without gaming machines—but the Applicant may still appeal the decision.

But the decision marks a significant step toward curbing the impact of gambling-related harm in vulnerable communities.