In response to concerning findings regarding late-night Electronic Gaming Machine (EGM) gambling and its association with heightened gambling harm, the NSW Independent Liquor and Gaming Authority (ILGA) has implemented stricter guidelines governing the approval of applications for additional late-night gaming in licensed venues.
The Context of Late-Night Gaming:
Late-night gaming, especially beyond midnight, has been identified as a critical period where the likelihood of problematic gambling behavior escalates. Studies, such as those conducted by Roy Morgan Research, have demonstrated a correlation between late-night EGM gambling and increased intensity of gambling, along with a higher incidence of problem gambling among participants.
ILGA’s Response:
Recognizing the potential harm associated with late-night gaming, ILGA has revised its guidelines governing the approval process for applications seeking to extend gaming hours. The primary focus of these revisions is to prioritize measures that mitigate gambling harm and ensure responsible gaming practices within licensed venues.
Chairperson’s Statement:
Chairperson Caroline Lamb emphasizes ILGA’s commitment to promoting responsible gambling and protecting individuals from the adverse effects of excessive gaming. Lamb underscores the significance of evidence-based decision-making in assessing late-night gaming applications and highlights ILGA’s role in enforcing effective harm minimization strategies.
Key Concerns and Considerations:
ILGA expresses concerns regarding proposals that could significantly increase access to late-night gaming, particularly after 2am. The regulator prioritizes the implementation of stringent conditions aimed at reducing gambling-related harm, such as limiting gaming room operating hours. The emphasis is on fostering an environment where late-night gaming occurs within a framework that actively addresses harm minimization.
Proactive Measures by Venues:
ILGA encourages licensed venues offering gaming facilities to proactively introduce measures to mitigate the risks associated with late-night gambling. By implementing effective harm minimization strategies, venues can demonstrate their commitment to promoting responsible gaming practices and safeguarding the well-being of patrons.
Regulatory Oversight and Intervention:
ILGA asserts its authority to impose additional conditions on licenses, irrespective of whether an application for late-night gaming has been submitted. This regulatory power enables ILGA to intervene when venues fail to adequately address the potential risks associated with extended gaming hours, thereby reinforcing the importance of compliance with harm minimization requirements.
Collaborative Efforts for Harm Reduction:
ILGA emphasizes the collaborative nature of efforts to minimize gambling harm, encouraging cooperation between regulatory authorities, licensed venues, and stakeholders within the gambling industry. By fostering dialogue and partnership, ILGA seeks to create a comprehensive approach to addressing the complex challenges posed by late-night gaming.
Future Directions:
Looking ahead, ILGA remains committed to continually evaluating and refining its guidelines in response to emerging research and developments in the field of gambling harm prevention. By remaining proactive and adaptive, ILGA aims to ensure that regulatory measures effectively mitigate the risks associated with late-night gaming and promote responsible gambling practices across NSW.
ILGA’s implementation of stricter guidelines for late-night gaming applications reflects a proactive approach to addressing the heightened risks of gambling harm associated with extended gaming hours. By prioritizing evidence-based decision-making and promoting responsible gambling practices, ILGA aims to create a safer gaming environment that prioritizes the well-being of individuals within the community.