The government of New South Wales (NSW) in Australia has committed $100 million to fund initiatives aimed at reducing gambling harm in the state. The funds will be used to support a range of harm minimization projects and initiatives, including the Responsible Gambling Fund, self-exclusion improvements, an independent panel overseeing gambling reform, and other harm minimization initiatives and reforms.
Funding Allocation:
The NSW government has allocated $100 million to support harm minimization initiatives and projects aimed at reducing gambling harm in the state. The funds will be sourced from a $100 million fine imposed on Star Entertainment Group last year.
Allocation Breakdown:
The funding will support various initiatives, including:
$10.0 million for the Responsible Gambling Fund in 2023-24 to support GambleAware services, awareness campaigns, education initiatives, and research.
$6.4 million for improvements in self-exclusion schemes, including the introduction of third-party exclusions in pubs and clubs.
$3.4 million to support an independent panel overseeing gambling reform in NSW, including a cashless gaming trial in pubs and clubs.
$21.7 million annually for three years from 2024-25 to fund other gambling harm minimization initiatives and reforms based on recommendations from the independent panel.
Commitment to Evidence-Based Reform:
The NSW government emphasized its commitment to evidence-based reform and responsible gaming measures. The aim is to prevent harm and prioritize support for those affected by gambling harm.
Additional Measures to Combat Gambling Harm:
The NSW government has implemented various measures to combat gambling harm, including bans on political donations from gaming-involved clubs, reduction in cash input limits for new poker machines, reduction in gaming machine entitlements, a ban on external gambling-related signage, and ensuring responsible gambling messages in advertisements.
Tax Changes:
The government is considering changes to land-based casino taxes, including raising non-rebated duty rates and switching to a tiered system for poker machine duty rates.
The NSW government’s commitment to funding harm minimization initiatives underscores its dedication to addressing gambling-related harms and promoting responsible gaming in the state.