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New South Wales pubs and clubs with gaming machines must now comply with new important measures designed to embed a harm minimisation culture in venues in order to support those at risk of gambling harm.
The Responsible Gambling Officer is now required to be on duty at all venues with more than 20 gaming devices.
The changes also prohibit licensed venues from displaying any advertising or signage relating to gambling machines on or near an Automatic Teller Machine or EFTPOS terminal.
A sign that directs people to an ATM or EFTPOS terminal is not allowed to be seen from any gaming machine.
Venues will have a grace period of one month to ensure that they comply with the new ATM sign rules before enforcement activities begin in August.
The NSW Government has conducted consultations with industry and stakeholders to determine the new requirements.
Venues are responsible for training and identifying staff who can fulfill the role of Responsible Gaming Officers. These officers will identify and assist patrons displaying problematic gambling behavior, refer them to gambling support services, and facilitate self-exclusion requests.
The number of officers that will be required on duty is based on the number and type of gaming machines a venue offers.
Venues must also keep a Gambling Incident Register, which will record incidents such as when a patron shows behaviours that indicate they may be at risk or are experiencing gambling harm. It will also include any requests to self-exclude.
From 1 January 2025 all ATMs will have to:
- Situate yourself at least 5 metres away from the entrance to any gaming room or gaming area.
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The view from the following:
- Entry to a gaming area, room or room that contains gaming machines.
- A gaming machine.
Inspectors from Liquor & Gaming NSW have already begun visiting venues in the state, to make sure they are aware about the new obligations that will apply on 1 July 2025. They will also be providing additional guidance to the industry regarding the changes.
David Harris, Minister of Gaming and Racing, said: “We are aware that gaming machines pose the greatest risk to gambling harm and can have a negative impact on individuals and their families.
The NSW Government is committed in implementing gambling reforms to reduce harms. This includes the introduction of Responsible Gaming Officers in clubs and pubs as well as changes in the location and visibility of ATMs at venues.
“Responsible gambling officers will work to identify patrons who are most at risk or already experiencing gambling harm. They will check on their well-being and refer them to assistance services if needed.
Cash dispensing machines located further from the gaming machines will encourage patrons to keep track of their spending.
We’ll monitor compliance in these fields closely to determine if we should strengthen harm minimisation laws further.
