The New South Wales Labor Party has taken a decisive step towards poker machine reform, as delegates at the state conference unanimously endorsed a robust new policy platform. This move comes as the party gears up for the upcoming state election, signaling a commitment to combatting gambling-related harm. The approved motion includes a moratorium on licenses for new poker machines, increased taxes for clubs generating over A$20 million from gaming machines, and a long-term strategy to substantially decrease the number of poker machines in the state over the next ten years.
A significant aspect of the proposal is the mandate that half of all gaming machines transferred between venues would be permanently taken out of circulation. Additionally, the policy advocates for the implementation of mandatory facial recognition technology in gaming rooms. This measure is intended to support the enforcement of a statewide self-exclusion register, aimed at assisting problem gamblers. The reforms have garnered robust support from party members and senior officials, who argue that New South Wales needs to intensify its efforts to address gambling addiction and mitigate the social harms associated with poker machines.
While the policy does not immediately translate into law, it marks a clear shift towards a more stringent approach by the state government as the election approaches. The conference also featured wider discussions on protest laws and other policy matters, with demonstrations concerning Palestine occurring during addresses by senior Labor leaders. These developments underscore the party’s broader agenda and its willingness to engage with challenging social issues.
In addition to state-level reforms, the new policy platform urges the federal government to prohibit gambling inducements, reinforcing a national drive to enhance gambling regulations across Australia. By advocating for these measures, the New South Wales Labor Party is positioning itself as a leader in the fight against gambling-related harm, setting the stage for potential legislative changes should they secure victory in the forthcoming election.
