The NSW government has announced a plan to transition to cashless pokies and other gaming machines in 2028, in an attempt to combat money laundering and reduce problem gambling. Source: True Blue Punter
This week, the New South Wales Liberal and National government launched a comprehensive state plan to make transition to cashless pokie machines by December 31, 2028.
The plan is in response to a report by the NSW Crime Commission regarding money laundering via electronic gaming machines. With the date to be locked into legislation and introduced to NSW parliament later in 2023.
The change to cashless pokies and other gaming machines is historic, resulting in one of the biggest gambling reforms ever undertaken in Australia with the NSW government aiming to prevent money and protect the public.
Included in the legislative package will be support for pub and clubs to make the transition to cashless gaming, as well as funding for new business areas and further support for regional and small venues.
Cashless gaming includes features to reduce and prevent problem gambling, “including mandatory self-imposed limits and cooling-off periods, breaks in play, prohibiting the transfer of funds from credit-cards and prohibiting automatic top-ups.”
An independent Transition Taskforce, to be chaired by the Secretary of the Department of Premier and Cabinet, will also be established to ensure an effective transition to cashless gaming. The taskforce will operate from April 2023, and will include representatives from key government agencies, harm minimisation experts, and industry representatives.
The full rollout will begin in early 2024.
When announcing the plan, NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet said, “Today we make a once in a lifetime change to create a better NSW.
“We address the number one recommendation from the Crime Commission and we will end money laundering in pubs and clubs, while protecting jobs and supporting communities.
“We will also ensure people using poker machines receive more support, if they want it, to deal with problem gambling.
“Pubs and clubs are the lifeblood of so many communities across NSW and I want them to thrive, continue to grow and be a place for fun and enjoyment for everyone.
“My government will walk with our pubs and clubs every step of the way on this transition.”
You can read the full media release and details of the cashless pokies plan, including a summary of measures, here.
