How the law regulates the availability of slot machines
In New South Wales (NSW), the availability of slot machines (poker machines) is regulated to prevent excessive gambling and protect vulnerable populations. The basic rules are established in the Gaming Machines Act 2001, Casino Control Act 1992, and by-laws and regulations of Liquor & Gaming NSW.
1. Limits on the number of machines
Each licensed club or pub has a set limit on the number of slot machines.
The limit depends on the category of the establishment, size, financial performance and location.
The introduction of new machines is possible only through the gaming machine enTitles system - the purchase, transfer or redistribution of licenses for the installation of machines.
2. Placement restrictions
Machines can only be located in specially designated play areas inaccessible to minors.
It is forbidden to place slot machines near entrances, exits, food zones and places where they are easy to see from the street.
Near schools, children's institutions and other facilities with a high concentration of minors, assault rifles are completely prohibited.
3. Operating time constraints
Local councils, in conjunction with the regulator, can set the hours at which slot machines must be switched off (usually in the early morning).
The purpose of such "no-play periods" is to reduce the risk of lengthy gaming sessions.
4. Access control measures
Mandatory verification of the age of all players.
Prohibition of participation in the game for persons included in the lists of self-exclusion.
Mandatory risk warnings on machine screens.
5. Sanctions for violations
Fines of up to AUD 27,500 for operators violating limits or accommodation rules.
Suspension or revocation of the license to operate slot machines.
Confiscation of machines installed without permission.
6. Liquor & Gaming NSW role
The regulator maintains a register of all machines, controls their number and location, conducts inspections and investigates complaints.
Conclusion:
1. Limits on the number of machines
Each licensed club or pub has a set limit on the number of slot machines.
The limit depends on the category of the establishment, size, financial performance and location.
The introduction of new machines is possible only through the gaming machine enTitles system - the purchase, transfer or redistribution of licenses for the installation of machines.
2. Placement restrictions
Machines can only be located in specially designated play areas inaccessible to minors.
It is forbidden to place slot machines near entrances, exits, food zones and places where they are easy to see from the street.
Near schools, children's institutions and other facilities with a high concentration of minors, assault rifles are completely prohibited.
3. Operating time constraints
Local councils, in conjunction with the regulator, can set the hours at which slot machines must be switched off (usually in the early morning).
The purpose of such "no-play periods" is to reduce the risk of lengthy gaming sessions.
4. Access control measures
Mandatory verification of the age of all players.
Prohibition of participation in the game for persons included in the lists of self-exclusion.
Mandatory risk warnings on machine screens.
5. Sanctions for violations
Fines of up to AUD 27,500 for operators violating limits or accommodation rules.
Suspension or revocation of the license to operate slot machines.
Confiscation of machines installed without permission.
6. Liquor & Gaming NSW role
The regulator maintains a register of all machines, controls their number and location, conducts inspections and investigates complaints.
Conclusion:
- In NSW, slot machine availability is strictly controlled through a system of limits, accommodation rules and time limits. These measures aim to balance the commercial interests of operators with the need to protect the public from the potential harms of gambling.
