Steps are being taken in one Australian state to reduce the number of gaming machines in operation and speed up the process of introducing pre-commitment technology.
The South Australia state government is to accelerate the introduction of pre-commitment technology on gaming machines through a number of new reforms.
Minister for Business Services and Consumers John Rau announced draft legislation under which from July next year venues can choose to become a ‘major’ venue with a greater focus on systems aimed at reducing problem gambling or a ‘minor’ venue where gaming is incidental to food and beverage service.
In a major venue, the maximum number of gaming machines will be set at 60 from January 1, 2017. Such venues would also voluntarily introduce pre-commitment and automated risk monitoring, while the maximum bet will be reduced from AUS$10 to $5.
Minor venues, meanwhile, could have a maximum of 20 machines and must close between 2am and 10am. From January 2020, these locations would also no longer have automated coin machines.
“The reforms accelerate the introduction of pre-commitment systems to support customers to gamble within their limits,” Rau said. “They also support venues and staff in identifying and addressing problem gambling.
“Importantly, these reforms are designed to decrease the number of gaming machines and gaming venues in South Australia.”
All venues will be required to meet new training standards to support the introduction of pre-commitment machines in South Australia and will also have to introduce new in-venue signage to support customer budget setting and gambling help services.
