The New South Wales Labor Party has taken a decisive step towards reforming poker machine regulations by approving a new policy platform at its state conference. This move comes as the party gears up for the forthcoming state election. The unanimously adopted motion signals Labor’s commitment to mitigating gambling-related harm, with key measures including a moratorium on licenses for new poker machines and higher taxes for clubs earning over A$20 million from gaming machines.
A long-term objective of the policy is to significantly decrease the number of poker machines across the state over the next ten years. To achieve this, the plan proposes that half of all gaming machines transferred between venues be permanently decommissioned. Furthermore, the policy endorses the implementation of mandatory facial recognition technology in gaming rooms, aimed at bolstering a statewide self-exclusion register to aid problem gamblers.
The reforms have garnered robust support from both party members and senior officials, who argue that New South Wales needs to intensify efforts to curb gambling addiction and address the societal issues linked to poker machines. Although these policy changes are not immediately enforceable as law, they represent a firmer stance by the state government as the election approaches.
In addition to poker machine reforms, the conference addressed other significant policy issues, including debates on protest laws. Notably, demonstrations concerning Palestine occurred during speeches by high-ranking Labor leaders, highlighting the diverse range of topics covered at the event.
The new platform also urges the federal government to prohibit gambling inducements, reflecting a broader endeavor to tighten gambling regulations across Australia. This aspect of the policy underscores the party’s commitment to a comprehensive approach in addressing the challenges posed by gambling.