Liquor & Gaming NSW is actively pursuing its regulatory mandate to ensure that gambling establishments in the region adhere to newly implemented ha
Liquor & Gaming NSW is actively pursuing its regulatory mandate to ensure that gambling establishments in the region adhere to newly implemented harm reduction strategies. Recent assessments indicate that these venues are increasingly prepared to meet the updated standards.
NSW Inspectors Ensure Compliance with New Regulations
The regulatory body reported that its inspectors conducted visits to 528 hotels and clubs throughout New South Wales during July and August. Their primary objective was to verify compliance with new mandates concerning the establishment of responsible gaming officer (RGO) roles, maintenance of gambling incident logs, appropriate ATM signage, and adherence to gaming plans of management (GPOM).
Liquor & Gaming NSW highlighted a significant readiness among gambling venues, noting that as of July 1, 2024, an impressive 93% of establishments have successfully aligned with the new regulations. The few infractions identified by inspectors were predominantly linked to non-compliance with the updated ATM signage requirements.
The authority reiterated its commitment to ongoing inspections across the state, ensuring that all gambling venues uphold their responsibilities once these regulations take full effect.
Operators Prepared to Adapt to New Regulations
Jane Lin, executive director for regulatory operations at Liquor & Gaming NSW, remarked on this development by stating that these new measures represent a crucial advancement in enhancing customer safety protocols. She assured stakeholders that inspectors will persist in monitoring local gaming facilities for compliance.
The focus remains on reviewing Gaming Plans of Management for necessary content inclusion while also verifying adherence to established policies and procedures within those plans.
Jane Lin, executive director regulatory operations, Liquor & Gaming NSW
Lins emphasized the importance for venues not only to develop comprehensive plans but also ensure their staff are well-informed about these changes and prepared for implementation.
Gaming Establishments Must Adhere to Updated Requirements
This initiative is part of a broader commitment from the NSW government aimed at implementing evidence-based reforms in gaming practices. Legislators are striving for a balance between supporting local enterprises while safeguarding consumers against potential gambling-related harms.
The revised regulations mandate property managers overseeing gaming activities undergo training focused on identifying players who may be at risk and intervening appropriately when necessary.
- Diligently document instances related to potential gambling harm incidents;
- Create RGO positions within venues operating more than 20 gaming machines;
- Develop and regularly update a comprehensive Gaming Plan of Management at least annually;
Additionally, starting from January 1, 2025, it will be required that ATMs be positioned no closer than five meters from any entrance or exit leading into a gaming area.
If certain venues find themselves unable to comply with these stipulations, they may apply for an exemption through the regulator’s office.
COMMENTS
It’s great to see NSW operators adapting positively to the new RG rules; their commitment to compliance sets a strong standard for the entire industry!