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The NSW Government has taken action to fulfill a key electoral commitment to reduce gambling problem by moving to prohibit external signage, e.g. The NSW Government is taking action to deliver on a key election commitment to reduce problem gambling, by moving to ban external signage (e.g.
The government’s move on VIP signs comes after it introduced legislation during the first week of the new parliament to prohibit clubs with pokies donating money to NSW political parties.
This week, pubs and clubs are notified that any external signs related to gambling, from digital video displays to fixed non-illuminated awnings, must be removed, modified, or hidden before the 1 September 2023.
Liquor & Gaming NSW has published a position document that outlines the enforcement strategy and transition period. Venue operators are given three months to remove any gaming-related signs.
Venues that can show delays in removing signage due to circumstances beyond their control will be given an additional three months. After this period, zero tolerance will be applied.
The names VIP Room/VIP Lounge and Golden Room/Lounge as well as images such as dragons, coins, or lightning motifs will be banned.
Expectations for the removal of signage will be implemented in stages, so that venues have time to remove, turn off, hide or otherwise change static and electronic signs.
During the transition period, the Government will be working with industry associations in NSW and venues throughout NSW. The maximum penalty for violating the Act and failing to remove signs is 100 penalty units or $11,000 per offense.
David Harris, Minister for Gaming and Racing in NSW, said: “The NSW Government is committed to introducing significant gambling harm-minimization measures.
Signs such as VIP lounge are posted on the facades of bars and clubs in all parts of the state to let people know that there are gaming machines.
Children and community members who are at high risk of gambling harm can see some of these signs.
While there are laws that prohibit gambling related signage, venue owners have circumvented them by advertising “VIP Lounges”. This loophole is being closed for the good of our communities.”
