NSW gaming regulator Liquor & Gaming NSW says it has fined, cautioned or taken further disciplinary action against four venues for failing to meet their mandatory poker machine shutdown obligations.
In a statement, the regulator revealed that it has undertaken an intelligence-led operation targeting compliance with the new mandatory shutdown requirements – reviewing 51 venues across Sydney, the Hunter and the North Coast and with a further 70 venues under assessment.
This follows the rollout of new rules under which gaming machines in NSW venues must be switched off between 4am and 10am each day, a harm-minimization measure aimed at reducing opportunities for extended play.
In April this year, the NSW Government also removed outdated exemptions that enabled more than 650 pubs and clubs to operate gaming machines during standard shutdown hours.
Liquor & Gaming NSW said its operation has resulted in fines being issued to the Crown Hotel in Camden and East Cessnock Bowling Club, an official caution being issued to one venue and another being referred for formal disciplinary action.
The regulator added that it uses a combination of real-time data analysis, venue inspections and record examinations to identify venues that may not be meeting their obligations.
While regulatory action has been taken where warranted, 32 venues have also received education and compliance support where issues were isolated, minor in nature or arose from exceptional circumstances outside the venue’s control.
“The six-hour shutdown period is an important safeguard that supports harm minimization by providing a guaranteed break in gaming machine operation each day,” said Liquor & Gaming NSW Executive Director Regulatory Operations, Dimitri Argeres.
“While it’s pleasing that the vast majority of reviewed venues have met their obligations, we have identified a small number of breaches resulting in penalties, regulatory action and ongoing investigations.
“Our approach is intelligence-led and proportionate. Where issues are minor or isolated, we work with venues to improve compliance. However, significant or repeated breaches will attract stronger regulatory action.
“Venue operators should ensure their systems, processes and staff are equipped to meet the requirements and prevent gaming machines operating during mandatory shutdown periods.
“We will continue to use data, technology and targeted inspections to identify non-compliance and ensure venues are meeting their obligations.”
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