FROM 1 July 2024 venues with more than 20 gaming machine entitlements will be required to have a Responsible Gambling Officer on duty while poker machines are in operation.

Responsible Gambling Officers will help identify patrons at risk of harm or displaying concerning gambling behaviour, refer them to gambling support information and services and facilitate requests for self-exclusion.

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All hotels and clubs with gaming machines will also be required to keep a Gambling Incident Register and a Gaming Plan of Management.  

The new requirements are being implemented through amendments to the Gaming Machines Regulation 2019. 

Clubs with more than 100 gaming machine entitlements will be required to have additional Responsible Gambling Officers, to ensure enough sufficiently trained staff are available to support patrons and to ensure they have a reasonable workload across larger gaming floors.  

Responsible Gambling Officers and other people with specified roles will also need to complete Advanced Responsible Conduct of Gambling (ARCG) training under the proposed changes. 

 The proposed new requirements would be implemented in stages to allow NSW venues, staff, management, and training providers time to adjust. 

Minister for Gaming and Racing David Harris said, “In NSW, gaming machines represent the highest risk of gambling harm.

“One in three people who gamble regularly are considered to be moderate or high-risk gamblers according to the Problem Gambling Severity Index.

“The introduction of Responsible Gambling Officers is the next important step in supporting people who may be experiencing gambling harm.”