At the New South Wales Labor Party’s state conference, delegates unanimously endorsed a comprehensive new policy platform aimed at reforming poker machine regulations, signaling a firmer stance on gambling-related issues ahead of the upcoming state election. The adopted measures include a moratorium on issuing new poker machine licenses and implementing higher taxes for clubs that earn more than A$20 million from these machines. Additionally, the policy outlines a long-term strategy to substantially decrease the number of poker machines in New South Wales over the next decade.
Under the proposed reforms, half of all gaming machines relocated between venues would be permanently phased out. The policy also champions the use of mandatory facial recognition technology within gaming rooms to support the enforcement of a statewide self-exclusion register, designed to assist problem gamblers. These measures received strong support from both party members and senior officials, who argue that New South Wales needs to enhance efforts to combat gambling addiction and mitigate the social consequences associated with poker machines.
While this policy platform does not automatically translate into law, it represents a significant shift in the state government’s approach as the election draws near. The conference also featured discussions on various other policy matters, including protest laws. Meanwhile, outside the event, demonstrations linked to Palestine were staged during speeches by prominent Labor leaders.
The newly adopted platform extends beyond state-level reforms, calling on the federal government to prohibit gambling inducements. This aligns with broader initiatives to tighten gambling regulations across Australia, reflecting the party’s commitment to addressing the pervasive issues linked with gambling.