A proposed change to the Gaming Code of Practice is the latest strategy in the fight against gambling addiction, and could see a dramatic shift in access to gambling machines. 

New rules proposed by ClubsNSW would see involuntary exclusion from clubs for problem gamblers, allowing families to request an exclusion if they believe a loved one is experiencing gambling harm. 

Following the request, an independent panel would determine if a ban was appropriate, and the length of that ban. 

The idea is now being reality-tested within the industry.

Walgett Sporting Club Manager Natalie Thurston said that while the idea has merit, it would be extremely hard to implement and police.

“You’d first have to assess whether there is a genuine issue or is it just the wife or husband who doesn’t want their partner at a club so they’re saying they’ve got a gambling problem,” Ms Thurston said. 

Currently, the responsibility largely lies on individuals to understand and take action if they feel they have a gambling problem, where the self exclusion scheme allows someone struggling with gambling to ban themselves. 

Ms Thurston said that little support is offered for staff in cases of self exclusion, and third party exclusion could make it harder. 

“There’s no support and backup training to do this. How do you approach someone that is excluded? How do you approach someone that you think may be gambling too much? You don’t know their financial situation and you don’t know their personal situation,” she said. 

The new code attempts to remedy this issue, with every club needing a designated Responsible Gambling Officer and employees receiving advanced training.

 Clubs NSW CEO Josh Landis said that the changes will also involve patrons who are evidently struggling with gambling being offered counselling, and in some cases automatically barred from clubs right across the state. 

“If someone appears to have a gambling problem, clubs will intervene and offer assistance. If the person refuses to accept that help, clubs can have them banned from their venues,” Mr Landis said. 

“We are prepared to protect people from themselves where it’s appropriate to do so,” Mr Landis said. 

According to Mr Landis, allowing families to be involved with club exclusion is something that Clubs NSW has been advocating for since 2012, yet so far has seen no results.

“Club patrons shouldn’t be alarmed if they are approached by staff to check if they are ok - this will be part of our new approach to responsible gambling,” Mr Landis said. 

The Gaming Code of Practice also proposes lifetime bans for suspected money launderers from all clubs. 

The Gaming Code of Practice is currently in draft form for consultation with clubs, government and other relevant stakeholders to identify any practical issues with implementation.

The consultation period is expected to conclude in December this year.