In an unprecedented move to tackle problem gambling and money laundering, the Victorian government is poised to introduce the strictest poker machine regulations in Australia. The gaming legislation amendment bill, set to be tabled in parliament on Tuesday, will cap the maximum load-up amount at a mere $100, a staggering 90% reduction from the current $1,000 limit.
Mandatory Carded Play: A Game-Changer for Responsible Gambling
At the heart of these reforms lies the concept of mandatory carded play. Patrons will be required to insert a player card to operate any poker machine in the state. This measure aims to provide gamblers with greater control over their spending by setting personalized limits on potential losses.
According to sources close to the government, the default limit under the precommitment scheme will be set at $50, a figure negotiated between the Labor party and the Greens earlier this year. However, individuals will have the option to adjust this limit based on their preferences and financial situation.
“Almost 30% of Victorians who play gaming machines experience gambling harm,” revealed Gaming Minister Melissa Horne. “These reforms provide important protections for people using gaming machines and for their loved ones.”
Phased Implementation Starting Mid-2025
The rollout of carded play is slated to commence in mid-2025, with a pilot program at selected venues paving the way for a phased approach to statewide implementation. The government aims to make carded play mandatory across all gaming venues in Victoria, following the successful transition at Crown Melbourne under stricter oversight measures.
Slowing the Spin: Reduced Spin Rates for New Machines
In addition to load-up limits and carded play, the new legislation tackles the speed at which poker machines operate. Any new gaming machines approved by the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) after December 1, 2025, must feature a minimum spin rate of three seconds per game. This 40% reduction in spin speed is designed to slow down gameplay and minimize potential losses over time.
Leading the Nation in Gambling Harm Prevention
Victoria’s proposed reforms far surpass the measures taken in other Australian states. New South Wales, for instance, has a load-up limit of $500 and has committed to mandatory carded play, but not until the end of 2028. By implementing these changes swiftly and comprehensively, Victoria aims to set a new standard in responsible gambling practices.
“These reforms provide important protections for people using gaming machines and for their loved ones,” emphasized Minister Horne. “Gambling harm has consequences, not just for the person gambling but for everyone around them.”
A Wake-Up Call for the Gambling Industry
The Victorian government’s decisive action serves as a wake-up call for the gambling industry nationwide. As public awareness of the devastating impacts of gambling addiction grows, policymakers are under increasing pressure to implement effective harm minimization strategies. The success of Victoria’s reforms could pave the way for similar measures to be adopted in other jurisdictions.
Balancing Revenue and Responsibility
While the gambling industry contributes significantly to state coffers, the social and economic costs of problem gambling cannot be ignored. By introducing stringent regulations, the Victorian government aims to strike a balance between generating revenue and protecting vulnerable individuals and communities from the harms associated with excessive gambling.
The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities
As Victoria embarks on this transformative journey, challenges lie ahead. The gambling industry is likely to push back against the proposed changes, citing potential job losses and reduced revenue. However, advocates argue that the long-term benefits of responsible gambling far outweigh any short-term economic impacts.
The successful implementation of these reforms will require close collaboration between the government, industry stakeholders, and community organizations. Education and support services must be readily available to assist individuals and families affected by gambling-related harm.
Victoria’s groundbreaking poker machine reforms mark a significant milestone in the fight against problem gambling. By introducing strict limits, mandatory carded play, and slower spin rates, the state is taking a proactive approach to minimizing the devastating consequences of gambling addiction. As the nation watches closely, Victoria’s bold steps could inspire a wave of change across Australia, ushering in a new era of responsible gambling practices.
