Responsible gambling officers will be introduced at gambling venues in New South Wales later this year to support people displaying gambling harm behaviour.
From July 1, Liquor & Gaming NSW has stated that venues in the Australian state with more than 20 gaming machines must have a responsible gambling officer on duty while poker machines are in operation.
These officers will be tasked with identifying people who are at risk of gambling harm or who are showing signs of concerning gambling behaviour, providing them with support information and services, including facilitating self-exclusion requests.
David Harris, Minister for Gaming and Racing, commented: “The NSW Government is committed to gambling reform, reducing gambling harm and stopping money laundering and criminal activity associated with poker machines.
“Harmful gambling not only impacts individuals but also their loved ones and the broader community. We know there is no single solution to address harm from gambling, which is why we are implementing a range of gambling reforms.”
As part of new requirements being implemented through amendments to the Gaming Machines Regulation 2019, hotels and clubs with gaming machines must keep a Gambling Incident Register and a Gaming Plan of Management.
In addition, multiple responsible gambling officers will be required at venues with more than 100 gaming machines to ensure that support is available to patrons across the gaming floor.
Responsible gambling officers and other specified roles will also need to complete Advanced Responsible Conduct of Gambling training under the proposed changes.
These proposed new requirements will be implemented in stages to allow venues, staff, management and training providers time to adjust.
The position paper on responsible gambling officers has been made available to the industry to provide clarity about the new harm minimisation measures and timeframes for implementation so that staff undertake the necessary training.
Harris added: “In NSW, gaming machines represent the highest risk of gambling harm. One in three people who gamble regularly are considered to be moderate or high-risk gamblers according to the Problem Gambling Severity Index.
“The introduction of Responsible Gambling Officers is the next important step in supporting people who may be experiencing gambling harm. They will be across pubs and clubs where gambling is happening, be alert to patrons at risk of harm or displaying concerning gambling behaviour and link them to the support they need, such as the GambleAware hotline.
“It is great to have industry on board with our gambling reform agenda as well as harm minimisation organisations. Together we are making a real difference in tackling gambling-related harm.”
