TLDR
- NSW will require facial recognition technology at gaming-room entrances in pubs and clubs
- A single statewide exclusion register will replace the current fragmented system
- VIP programs linked to gaming machines will be banned across the state
- Gaming machine numbers will fall as the forfeiture rate rises from 1 in 3 to 1 in 2
- AU$95.2 million will fund the reforms over the next four years
The New South Wales government has announced new gambling reforms for pubs and clubs. The changes include facial recognition technology, a new exclusion register, and marketing limits.
Officials pointed to survey data to explain the move. The NSW Gambling Survey 2024 found that 3.1% of adults faced moderate risk gambling, while 0.9% faced high risk gambling.
Statewide Exclusion Register Planned
Right now, people can only exclude themselves from selected venues or from one full venue. Staff at each location are largely responsible for checking compliance.
The new statewide register will cover every hotel and club with gaming machines. A person’s exclusion will apply everywhere at once instead of only at chosen locations.
Facial recognition technology will launch alongside the register in 2028. The system is meant to help enforce exclusions automatically across venues.
Machine Numbers And Funding
NSW currently has 87,000 gaming machines spread across 2,100 clubs and hotels. The reforms will reduce that total over time.
The forfeiture rate for machine entitlements traded between venues will rise from 1 in 3 to 1 in 2. Under the new rate, one entitlement will be permanently removed for every two traded.
A new sinking cap will speed up the reduction. The statewide machine limit will fall as entitlements leave circulation.
The government will spend AU$95.2 million over four years to fund the reforms. Money will come from the state’s gambling harm-minimisation fund and higher licence fees for venues.
The Centralised Monitoring System will also get an upgrade over the next two years. Officials say old technology has slowed the shift toward account based play.
Account based systems could help fight money laundering and reduce gambling harm, according to the government. Players will still be able to use cash if they prefer it.
VIP programs linked to gaming machines will be banned under the new rules. Gambling ads will also be barred from government and council owned property.
Betting companies will need clear consent before contacting potential customers by phone, email, or text. New transparency rules will apply to promotions from affiliates and social media influencers.
Commissions tied to higher risk gambling products will also face new limits. The rules are meant to reduce incentives that push riskier betting.
Minister for Gaming and Racing David Harris said the reforms were built with input from industry groups, harm-minimisation experts, and privacy advocates. He said the package combines technology, exclusion tools, and funding for harm reduction.
The statewide exclusion register and facial recognition system are set to launch in 2028. The Centralised Monitoring System upgrade and other measures will roll out over the coming years.
