NSW gambling regulator enforces compliance crackdown with venue visits

Inspectors from the regulator visited 528 hotels and clubs across NSW throughout both July and August to ensure venues are complying with new requirements enforced in September. Establishing a responsible gaming officer and gambling incident register were among the new rules, as well as removing any gambling signage from ATMs.

According to the regulator, venues have shown a “readiness” to adopt the rules since coming into effect on 1 July and 1 September. Some 93% are complying with new requirements.

It said the majority of breaches related to new ATM signage requirements. Hotels and clubs are prohibited from placing signage or advertising relating to gaming machines visible from a cash dispensing facility.

In addition, ATMs must be located outside of a five-metre radius of entrances or exits of gaming areas. This is effective from 1 January next year.

What other measures are now in effect in NSW?

Other rules in place in NSW include venues needing to maintain and conduct monthly reviews of a gambling incident register which documents any player incidents. Licensees running more than 20 gaming machines must also introduce responsible gaming officers to monitor gambling activities.

As of 1 September, venues should also have a management plan in place for their gambling operations, and update this at least annually.

Licensed venues in NSW will be required to train staff in line with the latest measures. This includes club secretaries, club directors, hotel licensees, hotel managers and staff who are responsible for managing gaming operations.

New rules were included in an updated version of the state’s 2016 Gaming and Liquor Administration legislation which came into effect on 1 September.

Ongoing efforts to tackle gambling harm

Liquor & Gaming NSW executive director regulatory operations, Jane Lin, said the new rules are an important next step in minimising gambling harm in the state.

“Inspectors are focusing on gaming plans of management to ensure they have the required content included, as well as testing that the policies and procedures in the plan are being adhered to,” Lin said.

“It’s important that venues not only have a plan prepared, but ensure their staff are aware of the contents and are checking to make sure it is being complied with.”

“The new requirements are part of the government’s commitment to deliver an evidence-based reform that reduces gambling harm, stops money laundering, and supports local communities and jobs,” the regulator added.