Self-exclusion register and machine caps
New South Wales will build a state-wide self-exclusion register backed by mandatory facial recognition at the entrance to gaming rooms, and will ban VIP programmes for players. The package, presented on Tuesday, is funded with AU$95.2 million ($68.1 million) over four years. The government of Premier Chris Minns calls it a 'key election commitment'.
The reforms draw on recommendations from the Independent Panel for Gaming Reform and on the NSW Gambling Survey 2024, which put 3.1% of the state's adults at moderate risk and 0.9% at high risk. David Harris, the gaming and racing minister, said the measures aim to cut harm without damaging the sector's viability.
New South Wales now runs 87,000 poker machines across 2,100 clubs and hotels. That count is meant to fall. When machine licences change hands, the forfeiture rate rises from one in three to one in two, and a 'sinking cap' will pull the overall ceiling down as licences leave circulation.
Biometrics replace a self-exclusion system that today works venue by venue and depends on staff. Relatives, friends, venues and police will be able to trigger an exclusion from the third-party side.
Marketing and affiliates
Advertising on state and municipal assets is out. Direct calls, email and SMS will require the customer's consent. Affiliates and influencers face disclosure requirements, and commission schemes on higher-risk products will be restricted. The government also promises a strategy on online gambling harm and tougher penalties for illegal operators.
