In recent developments, the New South Wales (NSW) gambling regulator has taken a firm stance against venues violating regulations pertaining to the placement of ATMs in proximity to gaming machines. This crackdown is part of a broader initiative by Liquor & Gaming NSW to ensure responsible gambling practices. Vbar, located on Liverpool St in Sydney’s CBD, recently faced penalties for breaching these regulations, adding to a growing list of enforcement actions.
Regulatory Violation:
Vbar, a licensee in inner Sydney, was found guilty of violating the Gaming Machines Regulation 2019 by siting an ATM in the same area as its gaming machines. The ATM, conspicuously labeled as such, was placed in an “ATM Room” attached to the gaming room, directly contravening the regulations. The Local Court subsequently fined the licensee $5,500, marking the 13th prosecution in a series of enforcement actions initiated by Liquor & Gaming NSW.
Regulatory Framework:
The Gaming Machines Regulation 2019 expressly prohibits the placement of cash dispensing facilities in areas where approved gaming machines are located. The regulation emphasizes the need for ATMs to be situated entirely separate from gaming rooms, even if internal design elements attempt to conceal the proximity. This measure aims to mitigate gambling harm by limiting immediate access to cash, thereby encouraging patrons to take breaks from gaming activities.
Enforcement Measures:
Executive Director Regulatory Operations, Jane Lin, reiterated Liquor & Gaming NSW’s zero-tolerance approach toward venue operators failing to adhere to gaming harm minimization measures. The regulator has conducted 437 inspections at high-risk establishments since December 1, 2023, and plans to maintain rigorous monitoring of gaming venues. The focus areas include the availability of credit from on-site ATMs, visibility of gaming-related signage, venue layouts that may encourage patrons to pass through gaming areas, presence of self-exclusion signage, and prevention of minors engaging with gaming machines.
Compliance Challenges:
While many venues in NSW are compliant with these measures, Lin expressed concern about those failing to prioritize patron protection. Non-compliance with regulations poses a significant challenge to fostering responsible gambling practices. The regulator emphasizes that any attempts to circumvent legislation will be met with robust enforcement responses.
Ongoing Monitoring:
Liquor & Gaming NSW remains committed to ongoing monitoring, particularly in high-risk venues. The regulator’s proactive approach involves inspecting venues to ensure compliance with harm minimization measures and addressing potential loopholes in the regulatory framework.
Prevention of Gambling Harm:
The stringent enforcement of regulations is grounded in the imperative to prevent and minimize gambling harm. Lin highlighted the correlation between ready access to cash withdrawals and the likelihood of gamblers losing track of their expenditures. By mandating the separation of ATMs from gaming areas, the regulations aim to create a physical and psychological distance, encouraging players to pause and reconsider their gambling activities.
Industry Awareness:
The importance of these regulatory measures has been consistently communicated to licensees, with the Gaming Machines Regulation 2019 serving as a comprehensive guide. Industry awareness is crucial in ensuring that venues not only understand but also actively implement measures to protect patrons from potential gambling-related harm.
Future Directions:
As part of its commitment to responsible gambling, Liquor & Gaming NSW is poised to explore additional measures and improvements in the regulatory framework. The evolving landscape of the gaming industry necessitates constant adaptation to emerging challenges and the identification of innovative solutions to address them.
The recent fine imposed on Vbar and the ongoing enforcement actions underscore the NSW gambling regulator’s commitment to upholding responsible gambling practices. By addressing issues related to ATM locations and closely monitoring high-risk venues, Liquor & Gaming NSW aims to create an environment that prioritizes patron welfare and minimizes the potential for gambling harm. The collaboration between regulators, licensees, and the broader industry is essential in achieving a balanced and responsible gaming landscape in New South Wales.