The Moderator General of the Presbyterian Church of Australia, Rt Rev Robert Benn, has joined the chorus of opposition to Tab Corp’s plan to open its outlets in Victoria and NSW on Good Friday.

Mr Benn said today he was saddened to hear that gambling was to be allowed on a day which had been set aside as a public holiday in recognition of the death of Christ.

"This, along with news that around 80 stores including Myer, David Jones, Kmart, Freedom and Officeworks are seeking permission to trade on Easter Sunday and Boxing Day, sends a message that Good Friday is just the same as any other day of the week," he said.

"While we realise that not all Australians are practicing Christians, the reason the day still exists as a statutorily-protected public holiday is a reflection of the fact that around 64 per cent of the population still identifies Christianity as its religion.

"Not only is Tab Corp offering gambling as an activity on one of the most sacred days of the Christian calendar, but it is denying its employees who work on that day the opportunity to observe Good Friday for the purpose it was set aside."

Mr Benn congratulated Victorian Premier John Brumby for identifying Good Friday as a sacred day.

Karen Forman

Communications Manager

Presbyterian Church of Australia (NSW)

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