Legal measures against gambling addiction
In New South Wales (NSW), measures to prevent and reduce the risk of gambling addiction are enshrined in the Casino Control Act 1992, Gaming Machines Act 2001, Betting and Racing Act 1998, and the federal Interactive Gambling Act 2001. They are mandatory for all licensed gambling operators, including land-based casinos, clubs, pubs and online platforms.
1. Responsible Play Programs
The Responsible Conduct of Gambling (RCG) program is mandatory in all establishments.
Train staff to identify signs of problem gambling and provide primary care to players.
Availability of information on gambling risks and support services.
2. Control tools for players
Self-exclusion - the ability to voluntarily block access to games for a period of 6 months to unlimited.
Personal limits on deposits, bets and playing time.
Reality check - reminders of the time and amounts spent in the game.
3. Advertising and incentive restrictions
A ban on ads targeting vulnerable groups and minors.
Mandatory messages about responsible play in advertising materials and on the operator's website.
Banning aggressive marketing practices such as bonuses with misleading terms and conditions.
4. Protection of minors
Mandatory verification of age before admission to the game.
Banning slot machines from areas accessible to under-18s.
5. Support and referral
Providing contact details for help services such as Gambling Help NSW.
Having trained staff to advise players.
Integration with government and community addiction prevention programs.
6. Monitoring and reporting
Operators are required to keep track of the measures taken and submit reports to Liquor & Gaming NSW.
If violations are detected, the regulator has the right to impose fines, suspend or revoke the license.
Conclusion:
1. Responsible Play Programs
The Responsible Conduct of Gambling (RCG) program is mandatory in all establishments.
Train staff to identify signs of problem gambling and provide primary care to players.
Availability of information on gambling risks and support services.
2. Control tools for players
Self-exclusion - the ability to voluntarily block access to games for a period of 6 months to unlimited.
Personal limits on deposits, bets and playing time.
Reality check - reminders of the time and amounts spent in the game.
3. Advertising and incentive restrictions
A ban on ads targeting vulnerable groups and minors.
Mandatory messages about responsible play in advertising materials and on the operator's website.
Banning aggressive marketing practices such as bonuses with misleading terms and conditions.
4. Protection of minors
Mandatory verification of age before admission to the game.
Banning slot machines from areas accessible to under-18s.
5. Support and referral
Providing contact details for help services such as Gambling Help NSW.
Having trained staff to advise players.
Integration with government and community addiction prevention programs.
6. Monitoring and reporting
Operators are required to keep track of the measures taken and submit reports to Liquor & Gaming NSW.
If violations are detected, the regulator has the right to impose fines, suspend or revoke the license.
Conclusion:
- Measures against gambling addiction in NSW are mandatory and cover both technical tools for players and organisational responsibilities for operators. Their aim is to reduce gambling harm, ensure responsible gambling and provide effective help to those facing addiction. Failure to comply with these requirements threatens with serious sanctions.
