An Independent Panel on Gaming Reform, tasked with recommending an implementation roadmap for gaming reforms in the Australian state of New South Wales, has held its first meeting, with an upcoming cashless gaming trial top of the agenda.
The meeting, held in Sydney on Monday, focused on the design and framework for the trial, including the minimum requirements for venues and technology providers to take part, according to a statement from the NSW Government.
“The Panel’s first priority is to confirm the design and regulatory settings for the expanded cashless gaming trial, to ensure it can start as soon as possible,” said Minister for Gaming and Racing, David Harris
“This includes deciding which venues will take part, ensuring there is an appropriate mix of hotels and clubs across metropolitan and regional areas.
“By imposing certain mandatory requirements, the panel can ensure that the trial will have strong data security and privacy protections in place.”
The Independent Panel will provide advice to the NSW Government on a gaming reform implementation roadmap by November 2024, including recommendations on the use of an AU$100 million harm minimization fund, expanding the self-exclusion register and providing for third-party exclusions, and the use of facial recognition technology to support the enhanced exclusions schemes.
The panel is chaired by former NSW Office of Liquor, Gaming and Racing Commissioner Michael Foggo and counts former NSW Senator Dr Ursula Stephens and former Deputy Leader of the NSW Nationals, The Honourable Niall Blair, among its Executive Committee.
Gambling reform has been a focus of the NSW Government in recent months, with changes already implemented including a ban on external signage for gaming rooms across NSW, effective from 1 September; reducing the cash input limit from AU$5000 to AU$500 on all new machines as of 1 July 2023; and new legislation banning political donations from clubs with poker machines, also effective as of 1 July.
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