On September 1st, 2019, came into effect the New South Wales Gaming Machines Regulation 2019 and Casino Control Regulation 2019, that bring changes predominantly related to harm minimization measures.
The new legislation introduces a new levy of at least 5% of gaming machine lease payments or $1,000 per gaming machine lease per year (whichever is higher) to the Responsible Gambling Fund, while gaming-related application and license fees will be automatically adjusted in line with inflation.
Also, the requirements for responsible gaming information have been updated. Under the Gaming Machines Regulation, Sign 4G, which consists of the word “Think” and three pieces of information about problem gambling, must be displayed in all licensed venues.
However, the revised regulations clarify that failure to do so will now be regarded as only one offense, following the Liquor and Gaming Board said the previous regulation was “unclear” over whether it was one breach of regulations, or three.
Another change in both regulations is that now no longer describes specific player information and harm minimisation messages. Alternatively, the Independent Liquor & Gaming Authority (ILGA) will have the authority to change and approve the content of messages in signs, notices and player information brochures, a move the New South Wales Liquor and Gaming Board believes will “ensure messages are fit for purpose and based on current research, industry best practice and player behavior”.
Venues that provide gaming will no longer be required to hang clocks in those areas, due to evidence that clocks hung in gaming areas have little impact on harm minimization.
The Casino Control Regulation 2019 will introduce new responsible service of alcohol framework requirements, including that liquor licensees and approved managers regulated under the Casino Control Regulation 2019 need to complete Licensee and/or Advanced Licensee training.
