New South Wales Proposes Cutting Poker Machine Numbers by 50%

(AsiaGameHub) –   Rumors suggest the New South Wales government is exploring a proposal to cut the number of poker machines by half. This development comes amid ongoing concerns about gambling-related harm in the Australian state.

NSW Considers Significant Cut to Poker Machine Numbers

According to the announcement, the Labor Party will prioritize discussing this proposal at its upcoming state conference. The measure has received strong backing from both the Labor Party and Unions NSW, indicating widespread support.

Under the proposal, New South Wales’ current poker machine count—approximately 90,000—would be reduced to roughly 45,000. This change would occur gradually over the next 10 years.

Speaking to The Sydney Morning Herald, Unions NSW secretary Mark Morey stated that it is now clear the number of poker machines needs to be cut. He noted that venues with more than 20 machines are essentially casinos and should be regulated as such.

For context, poker machines are available at various venues, including bars and clubs.

Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne added that there has been strong public and Labor support for reducing poker machine numbers. He emphasized that the issue has become an “ethical matter of such importance” that it can no longer be left to the state parliamentary party to decide.

Cashless Gaming Proposal Rejected, But Other Harm-Reduction Measures Implemented

Previously, NSW lawmakers chose not to implement cashless gaming technology across all poker machine venues. Supporters argued that cashless systems would help protect vulnerable players from harm, but bars and clubs in the state strongly opposed this measure.

However, several steps have been taken to reduce harmful gaming: these include a six-hour window from 4 am to 10 am when pubs and clubs cannot offer gambling, lowering the deposit limit from AUD 5,000 to AUD 500, requiring venues to remove all external gambling signage visible from outside, and mandating establishments with over 20 gaming machines to hire dedicated responsible gambling officers.

Australia has also banned clubs with electronic machines from making political donations.

Discussions about reducing the number of poker machines will continue at July’s state conference, where lawmakers will also address support measures for potentially impacted venues.