In a month-long compliance operation conducted by Liquor and Gaming NSW (L&GNSW), it has been revealed that nearly 99% of inspected pubs and clubs in New South Wales (NSW) have removed external gambling-related signage. This achievement is part of the Minns Government’s broader initiative to reform gaming room advertising.
Extensive Compliance Program
During this comprehensive compliance program, L&GNSW inspectors visited over 1,100 venues located across 35 metropolitan and eight regional Local Government Areas (LGA). This encompassed more than half of all venues in NSW that hold gaming machine entitlements.
Results from these inspections revealed that only 16 venues were found to have prohibited external signage, and L&GNSW is actively investigating these cases.
L&GNSW had previously communicated upcoming changes to the industry, including the issuance of a compliance position paper and numerous communications via its website and directly to venues leading up to the signage ban.
Strict Enforcement for Non-Compliance
To ensure ongoing compliance and promote responsible gambling practices, L&GNSW has announced that venues displaying non-compliant signage or attempting to circumvent the legislation with new signage will face escalated enforcement actions beginning December 1, 2023.
Non-compliance with these regulations may result in penalties of up to AU$11,000 (US$7,002) per offence.
Part of Broader Gaming Reform
The removal of external gambling signage is just one facet of the NSW Government’s comprehensive gaming reform efforts aimed at mitigating gambling-related harm. These initiatives include reducing cash input limits for new electronic gaming machines, capping gaming machine entitlements, introducing responsible gaming officers, and establishing an independent panel of experts to oversee the cashless gaming trial.
Minister for Gaming and Racing, David Harris, expressed gratitude for the industry’s cooperation in this endeavor. He highlighted the commitment to reducing gambling harm in the community and praised licensees and industry bodies for their collaboration.
Harris stated: “Removing this signage for pubs and clubs is just one part of our commitment to reducing gambling harm in our community, and I thank licensees and industry bodies for getting on board.”
He continued: “We have been working positively and proactively with industry associations and venues across the state to educate, inform, and support them through this process to ensure this high level of compliance.”