In response to ever-increasing concerns surrounding problem gambling and its associated harm, strong action has been taken by governmental authorities within New South Wales (NSW), Australia. A considerable shift in policy first announced in May indicated intentions to impose a prohibition on external gambling advertisements. Licensed operators in the gambling industry were given a stipulated period to adapt to this transition, with the new regulations officially coming into effect on the 1st of September 2023.
Barely a month following the enforcement of these restrictions on external gambling signage, an update was provided by the region’s gambling regulation authority, Liquor and Gaming NSW. The update disclosed that an overwhelming number of pubs and clubs were adhering to the new regulatory instructions. An extensive report compiled by this gambling regulatory body disclosed that investigative research indicated that approximately 99% of all inspected pubs and clubs in NSW had successfully removed their external gambling signs.
The investigation led by the gambling regulation authority spanned over 1,100 gambling venues, located within 35 metropolitan sectors and 8 regional local government zones. According to the gambling watchdog, this figure approximates to around half of all gambling venues in NSW which operate gaming machines. Subsequent to these inspections, it was resolved by Liquor and Gaming NSW that only 16 venues still displayed external gambling signs. In assessing this data, it was concluded by the gambling regulatory authority that compliance with the new regulations was at a significant rate, close to 99%.
Gaming and Racing Minister Extols Recent Developments
The Minister of Gaming and Racing, David Harris, underlined that addressal of external gambling signage represents only one component of a more extensive governmental strategy to combat problem gambling. Harris expressed his gratitude towards those licensed gambling operators who adhered to the new regulations, and clarified: “We have been working harmoniously and proactively with industry associations and venues throughout the state to educate, inform and support them during this transition and ensure this high level of adherence is achieved.”
In paying tribute to the efforts made by these venues, Harris pointed out that current external signage focuses on food and beverage promotions, alongside entertainment and live music events. “It leaves a clearly visible impact on the aesthetic appeal of our cities and suburbs,” he stated. Finally, the Minister of Gaming and Racing commended the collaborations between the gambling industry and the government in endeavouring to tackle problem gambling.
Non-compliant Venues Stand to Face Penalties
The gambling regulatory authority indicated that its inspectors are “presently examining cases of banned signage identified throughout their inspection period, so as to determine the reason behind the lack of removal.” It was warned that any gambling venues failing to remove their external signs will be liable to monetary fines. Emphasising their commitment to this issue, Liquor and Gaming NSW pledged to a no leniency policy for such infractions, starting from the date of 1st December 2023.
Alongside this ban on external gambling signage, the NSW government has instigated a range of wider reforms within the gambling industry to mitigate harm. These include the introduction of Responsible Gaming Officers at gambling venues operating over 20 machines, and the imposition of a ban on political donations from clubs offering gambling services. Furthermore, from the 1st of July, a cash input limitation has been enforced on all newly installed electronic gaming machines in NSW. This amendment effectively reduced the initial AU$5,000 limit to a maximum of AU$500.
