The NSW government will reduce the number of poker machine entitlements across the state by more than 3,000 machines and reduce the cash-in limit on new machines in pubs and clubs to just AU$500 (US$334) as part of its efforts to reduce gambling harm and prevent money laundering.
According to details announced Friday, the reduction in entitlements limits NSW pubs and clubs to those already in circulation, with the government having lowered the total allowable cap. More significant is the reduction in the cash-in limit, effective as of 1 July, which represents a 10-fold decrease from the previous limit of AU$5,000 (US$3,340).
The new requirement will be implemented by the NSW Independent Liquor & Gaming Authority (ILGA) issuing a circular to make the necessary changes to the Technical Standards – updating the previous ILGA Technical Standard Circular of 11 September 2019.
It won’t, however, apply retrospectively to any electronic gaming machines that were previously installed in a hotel or club prior to 1 July 2023, nor will they apply to The Star Sydney which will instead need to implement cashless player cards for all gaming conducted at the casino from 19 August 2024.
“We promised the people of NSW that we’d reform the gaming sector in a way that reduced gambling harm while future-proofing the industry,” said NSW Minister for Gaming and Racing, David Harris.
“One of these commitments was to reduce the number of poker machines in this state – and this is an important step forward.
“Further down the track, we’ll also be changing the GME forfeiture scheme so that for every two entitlements traded, one will be forfeited – which will see numbers drop at a faster rate.
“It’s important that as we navigate through these changes, we engage with industry so that we can ensure vibrancy of our hospitality and gaming industries.”
These latest regulatory changes come after the government previously announced a ban on external signage for gaming rooms as of 1 September 2023, and on political parties accepting financial donations from clubs with gaming machines from 1 July 2023.
RelatedPosts
