The *Canberra Times* publication states that the quantity of gaming terminals in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) is progressively decreasing. Nevertheless, the ACT administration stresses that a prudent strategy is necessary to attain its objective.
As a component of a shared governance arrangement between the Labor Party and the Greens, the administration intends to diminish the number of slot machines in Canberra’s social establishments to 3,500 by 2024. Presently, there are 3,611 electronic gaming devices operational in Canberra, although the number of permitted machines is greater at 3,863.
The COVID-19 outbreak and resulting closures considerably affected clubs’ income sources, compelling the government to reevaluate the speed of its slot machine reduction scheme.
Gaming Minister Shane Rattenbury recognizes that a meticulous plan is essential over the upcoming years to reach the 3,500 goal. The government is even investigating the prospect of some clubs becoming entirely devoid of gaming machines.
“Undoubtedly, COVID has had a financial effect on clubs; they are within the hospitality industry, and we’ve observed that the hospitality industry has been among the most severely impacted throughout the pandemic,” Rattenbury stated.
“So, while clubs have performed admirably during COVID, it has had repercussions, and I believe that’s something the government must ponder as we contemplate these transitional measures.”
This development coincides with the ACT government’s preparations for a fresh round of financing through its industry diversification fund.
This financial pool, established in 2019, receives financing from organizations, with each contributing 20 Australian dollars (approximately 14 US dollars) monthly for their initial 99 gaming machines. These organizations can then utilize this pool for initiatives that assist them in reducing their dependence on these machines and generating revenue through alternative avenues.