Amendment C67, which outlines guidelines for gaming venues, was approved by councillors at a meeting on Wednesday night.

Under the changes, applicants for gaming machines will have to survey nearby residents before the council makes a decision.

Cr Rob Guthrie of south ward spoke in favour of the new powers, saying the council had a tough stance on electronic gaming machines.

"These machines are legal in Victoria, and I personally hate them.

"We have set out a policy which shows applicants what our expectations are."

Speaking against the amendment, Cr Joe Morabito said the policy did not go far enough.

"I don't disagree with Cr Guthrie, but I am objecting on principle. People still have an ability to go down to the TAB.

"It stops pokies but it doesn't go any further."

Councillors Joan Donovan, Neil Manning, Henryka Benson and Roger Jukes also supported the amendment.

Councillors Helen Relph, John Letchford and Henry McLaughlin were absent from the meeting.