The Victorian State Government has announced a number of new reforms to electronic gaming machines (EGM), including requiring pre-assessment of liabilities and limiting the amount that can be bet per spin to AUD$100).
The reforms are aimed at protecting Victorians from gambling-related harm and preventing money laundering, according to the Sunday Times.
Under the changes, all EGM in Victoria will require a mandatory pre-condition limit, the speed of spins will be slowed to three seconds per round, and the betting limit will be capped at AU$100, up from the current AU$1,000.
The betting limit in Victoria has become even stricter than the recent reforms announced in New South Wales. In that region, the limit has been reduced from AU$5,000 to AU$500
The Victorian Government has also announced that by mid-2024, all slot machine areas in establishments will have a mandatory closure between 4am and 10am, although Crown Melbourne establishments will be exempt from this rule.
Premier Daniel Andrews commented on the restrictions: “These reforms will deliver Australia’s strongest gambling harm prevention and anti-money laundering measures. We owe it to all Victorian citizens to help those experiencing harm to turn their lives around. I look forward to the input and efforts of the working group on the project.”
The government added that this year’s budget includes A$71 million (R4.4 billion) for the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Committee to take on a greater role in minimising gambling harm.
