Liquor and Gaming NSW has issued a fine against a gaming machines operator, coming amid political and public pressure around ‘pokie’ machines.
The fine in question stands at AU$44,000 (€24,800) and has been issued to the former licence holder of the Richards on the Park Hotel following an investigation into its gaming machines activity.
The company was found to have operated gaming machines, colloquially known as ‘pokies’ in Australia, during the mandatory shutdown period on 68 different occasions. The incidents occurred between May 2022-September 2023.
Under NSW rules, pokie machines cannot be operated between 4am-10am every day, except under some exemptions, though these exemptions are due to be lifted in many cases next year.
The hotel was operated by a different licence holder at this time, which has been issued the penalty. Liquor and Gaming NSW has confirmed that the previous owner is no longer involved in the hotel’s operations.
Dimitri Argeres, Liquor and Gaming NSW Executive Director of Regulatory Operations, said: “Breaching these rules is a serious matter, and this penalty sends a clear message that compliance is not optional.
“Allowing gaming machines to operate during shutdown hours increases the risk of gambling harm, particularly in areas identified as high-risk. This decision reinforces the importance of harm minimisation and industry accountability.
“All gaming machines in NSW must be connected to a centralised monitoring system, and we will use the data from that system to commence investigations and as evidence to support strong enforcement action.”
The enforcement comes at a time of heightened political pressure around gambling in Australia, with reform advocates – particularly independent MPs and those from The Greens – keen to see regulatory reform press ahead.
A report containing 31 recommendations for regulatory change, known as the Murphy report after the late Peta Murphy MP who wrote it, was published back in 2023, but the Labor government under PM Anthony Albanese has been slow to adopt it.
Concerns around pokie machines, their prevalence across Australia’s hospitality industry and widespread use are key areas of concern for gambling treatment charities, public health professionals and reform advocates.