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The Minns Government has begun its statewide campaign to reform gaming room advertising.
Liquor and Gaming NSW has inspected more than 1100 venues in 35 metropolitan and eight regional Local Government Areas. Just over half of NSW’s venues with gaming machine entitlements were inspected during the compliance programme.
L&GNSW has begun an investigation into 16 venues that had prohibited signage on their exteriors. Overall, this represents a compliance rate of nearly 99%.
The signs were found to trigger gambling-related issues in those who have them. They will be banned as of 1 September 2023.
L&GNSW communicated directly with the industry about the changes first announced in may, including releasing a position paper on compliance and several communications to venues and on its website in the weeks and months leading up to the 1 September ban.
Inspectors are evaluating the prohibited signs identified during the blitz to determine the reason for the delay in removing them. Venues that are unable to provide clear proof that delays were due to factors beyond their control will face fines.
L&GNSW inspectors have also identified operators who appear to be trying to circumvent restrictions by putting up signage. L&GNSW will investigate this signage to determine if further action is required, such as enforcement or administrative actions.
L&GNSW have clearly stated that venues with non-compliant signs or with new signage which attempts to circumvent restrictions in legislation will be subjected to increased enforcement actions, with a ‘zero-tolerance’ approach, starting on 1 December 2023. If you fail to comply with the requirements, penalties can reach up to $11,000 per offense.
David Harris, Minister of Gaming and Racing, said: “Removing these signs for pubs and club is only one part of our commitment in reducing gambling harm to our community and I am grateful for licensees and the industry for their support.”
“We’ve been actively working with associations of industry and venues in the state, to inform them and help them understand this process. We also provide support and guidance.
We welcome the positive effect this campaign has had to the exterior of licensed venues, which now only feature advertisements for a variety of offerings like food and beverage specials and live music instead of signs that advertise the presence gaming machines. This campaign has made a significant difference to the appearance of our cities and suburban areas.
We will continue to work with the government and industry to reduce and prevent gambling harms in our community.
