The Victorian Government is progressing with landmark reforms aimed at reducing gambling-related harm by introducing mandatory pre-commitment cards for all poker machine venues across the state.
This initiative expands upon the existing system currently in place at Crown Casino.
Victoria pushes for mandatory pre-commitment cards to tackle gambling issues
The Gambling Legislation Amendment (Pre-commitment and Carded Play) Bill 2024, introduced to parliament in November 2024, is set for debate this week.
If passed, a three-month trial of the carded play system will commence in 40 venues mid-year, with full implementation across Victoria’s 26,000 poker machines by the end of 2027.
Under the proposed system, players will be required to use a player card linked to a registered YourPlay account to operate poker machines.
This card will enable users to set personal limits on time and money spent, providing greater control over their gambling activities.
When introducing the bill last year, then-minister Melissa Horne told parliament that 29 per cent of people who played pokies experienced some form of harm.
She also highlighted the need for these reforms to protect those affected.
“These changes will protect not just the 10 per cent of Victorians who play poker machines from gambling related harm, but their friends and loved ones.”
This policy also aims to reduce the maximum amount players can load onto machines from $1,000 to $100 and introduce a minimum spin rate of three seconds per game to slow play speed.
These measures are designed to curb gambling addiction and prevent money laundering.
In response to the reforms, Crown Melbourne has expressed support for the government’s initiatives.
The casino reports that over 500,000 patrons have registered for the carded play system.
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