More red tape reduction as gaming and racing reforms pass the Legislative Assembly


Released 02/08/2016

Minister for Racing and Gaming, Mick Gentleman today announced the passing of the Gaming and Racing (Red Tape Reduction) Legislation Amendment Act 2016 in the ACT Legislative Assembly.

“The passing of this Act today reinforces this Government’s commitment to red tape reduction for the gaming and racing industries, while maintaining a robust regulatory and harm minimisation framework,” Minister Gentlemen said.

The Gaming and Racing (Red Tape Reduction) Legislation Amendment Act 2016, which takes effect from 1 September 2016,  implements the following key reforms:

  • provides easier access to clubs for interstate visitors;
  • removes the requirement for pubs and clubs to display licences and authorisation certificates;
  • makes it easier for licensees to remove gaming machines from use; and
  • Implements a simplified licensing framework for race bookmakers and their agents to operate under, including the ability to renew licences.

Additionally, the Act amends the statutory requirement to display the percentage payout on signage on every gaming machine in the ACT.

“We found that the wording on this signage was often misleading and did not properly represent the circumstances of a potential payout on a gaming machine. With this Act, we will implement more appropriate signage requirements, with high impact messages that are easily recalled.” Minister Gentleman said.

These new messages better reflect harm minimisation principles and will be required to be displayed on all gaming machines in the Territory from 1 November 2016. Developed in consultation with Minister Rattenbury and in light of recent research, these messages are ‘Have you spent more than you can afford?’ and ‘Set your limit. Play within it.’

“I was pleased to progress these important reforms suggested by industry, including new streamlined processes for race bookmaking licensing and renewals.” Minister Gentleman said.

“This Act shows this Government and industry stakeholders working together to support the integrity and efficiency of the industry, while maintaining strong regulations where appropriate to protect consumers and reduce the risks of problem gambling to individuals and the community.” Minister Gentleman concluded.

- Statement ends -

Mick Gentleman, MLA | Media Releases


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