Victoria’s Trial of Electronic Gaming Machines Draws Criticism Over Lack of Mandatory Limits

October 16, 2025
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Background of the New Electronic Gaming Machine Trial in Victoria

Victoria has recently launched a trial program involving electronic gaming machines (EGMs) which has raised concerns among local councils. Critics argue that the trial falls short in effectively addressing gambling-related harm, a significant issue affecting communities.

Voluntary Versus Mandatory Loss Limits

The current initiative, known as the YourPlay card pilot, is being tested over a three-month period in 43 venues located in the areas of Monash, Greater Dandenong, and Ballarat. This program enables players to monitor their spending on poker machines. However, contrary to earlier expectations, the trial does not require players to set loss limits; instead, it leaves this option voluntary.

Monash Mayor Paul Klisaris expressed disappointment over the government’s decision to make loss limits optional. He noted that this change came as a surprise and that the council does not support the trial without mandatory and enforceable loss restrictions. Monash has experienced substantial losses, with $126 million recorded on 955 machines starting from 2024, placing it third highest in the state for gambling losses.

The mayor emphasized the harmful impact of these machines, highlighting that local authorities have not been adequately consulted despite being directly affected by the issue.

Similarly, Ballarat’s Mayor Tracey Hargreaves shared concerns about the trial, describing it as a missed chance to gain valuable insights into how mandatory measures might prevent gambling harm. Ballarat has 652 machines, the second-largest number in regional Victoria.

Greater Dandenong’s council has chosen to continue supporting the trial despite reservations about the voluntary nature of loss limits. Mayor Jim Memeti commented that by staying involved, the council hopes to influence the trial outcomes. His municipality has 928 machines, with daily losses averaging $387,000 or roughly $1,077 per adult.

Criticism of the Pilot Program

Reverend Tim Costello from the Alliance for Gambling Reform has openly criticized the pilot, calling it a sham. He highlighted that similar technology with mandatory loss limits is already in use at Crown Melbourne, where players are automatically locked out of 2,628 machines once they reach their self-imposed spending caps. Nearly 99% of gambling sessions at Crown conclude within these limits.

A spokesperson for Crown stated that their system empowers players to make better-informed choices and helps facilitate early interventions to minimize harm.

Government Response and Future Plans

Despite the criticism, Premier Jacinta Allan defended the trial and underscored plans to roll out automated carded play across Victoria within the year. This expansion intends to provide free cards to players and ensure all venues receive the support necessary for implementation.

Although these initiatives are in place, gambling losses continue to be high. The state is expected to generate approximately $2.7 billion in gambling taxes this fiscal year, reflecting a sustained increase over time. The current pilot will conclude in November, serving as a preliminary evaluation of a system that many believe could be more effective if it incorporated mandatory measures and wider application.