NSW Ends Late-Night Poker Machine Exemptions to Address Gambling Harms
Ending Late-Night Poker Machine Operations in NSW
More than 670 venues in New South Wales that offer poker machines will no longer be allowed to operate beyond 4 am. The state government has taken this step to address what it describes as a significant public health issue linked to extended gambling hours.
Exemptions Deemed Outdated and Removed
The announcement by Gaming Minister David Harris confirms that all gaming venues must now adhere strictly to the 4 am closing time. Previously, some venues benefited from exemptions allowing them to run machines around the clock, a practice that has been permitted for several decades.
Minister Harris highlighted that these exemptions have become obsolete and are no longer justifiable. After a thorough review, it was determined that the 20-year-old permissions that let numerous clubs and pubs continue gaming past the mandated hours were no longer suitable.
Venues have until March 31 to comply with the new regulations. Those with compelling reasons may apply for an appeal under more rigorous criteria set by an independent regulatory body, though these conditions have yet to be detailed.
Originally, exemptions were granted for reasons like financial difficulties or the venue’s role as a tourist attraction. Currently, around 20% of poker machine venues in NSW hold some form of exemption.
The removal of these exemptions ensures a mandatory six-hour break in gaming operations. This pause is intended to help gamblers disengage, reflect on their gambling habits, and reduce continuous play.
Greater Risks Identified During Early Morning Hours
The crackdown follows various pressures, including critiques from the state’s independent gambling advisory panel, critical auditing reports, cross-party political calls for reform, and studies indicating increased gambling harm after midnight.
Data cited by the government reveals that 70% of individuals gambling between 4 am and 10 am fall into the high or moderate risk categories for gambling-related harm.
The policy change has earned backing from organizations like the Australian Christian Lobby. CEO Michelle Pearse expressed concern over the two-decade lapse in review of such exemptions, emphasizing the social costs involved.
The NSW Liberal Party has also moved to support the termination of these exemptions, despite some dissent within its coalition.
Throughout NSW, poker machines continue to generate significant social and financial damage. Research from Wesley Mission shows losses exceeding AUD 1 million every hour, with $2.3 billion lost between April and June—a nearly 9% increase over the previous year. CEO Stu Cameron described these figures as a public health crisis and called for urgent government intervention.
Minister Harris defended the government’s efforts, noting that this measure is part of ongoing initiatives aimed at protecting those affected by gambling-related harm in New South Wales.
