The Independent Panel on Gaming Reform was established to oversee a cashless gaming trial in NSW, and provide advice on: cashless gaming in NSW, the use of the $100 million harm minimisation fund, and a Roadmap for Gaming Reform. 

The cashless gaming trial was in response to an inquiry by the NSW Crime Commission which made a suite of recommendations to minimise money laundering in pubs and clubs, including the introduction of mandatory cashless gaming to remove anonymity and increase traceability. 

The trial evaluation found that the technology generally worked well and is technically feasible but implementing a cashless gaming system, while possible, is challenging. As a result, the Roadmap proposes a phased implementation of mandatory reforms over 4-5 years with a focus on harm minimisation alongside anti-money laundering measures.

Findings of the trial

• Across all venues 243 people signed up for the trial; only 14 of these were deemed “genuine and active” users and were included in the analysis of player data.
• The trial identified significant user concerns, in particular around data privacy and cybersecurity risks.
• Technology providers and venues generally expressed a positive attitude toward the implementation of cashless gaming, viewing it as a step forward for the industry. 

Key recommendations of the Roadmap

• Implement a mandatory statewide account-based gaming system with a phased implementation approach allowing for voluntary adoption until a centralised system is fully operational.
• A statewide integrated system that links to a centralised database for players, ensuring limit settings are universally applied across venues.
• A continued role of cash, up to a certain threshold (with maximum cash threshold to be determined)
• Opt-out default non-binding spend, deposit and time limits and universal balance limits to provide a ‘nudge’ for players whilst facilitating flexibility and choice.
• A reduction of the threshold for cash payouts of winnings.
• Interoperability with other key systems including the statewide exclusion register and facial recognition technology.