NSW CLUBS PLAN TO BAN PROBLEM GAMBLERS

Problem gamblers could be turned away from NSW clubs at the request of family members under a draft plan designed to reduce harm from gambling.

The proposal by ClubsNSW would empower families to ask for their loved ones to be excluded from a club if they believed they had a gambling problem.

An independent panel would then determine if a ban was needed and how long it would remain in place.

ClubsNSW is the peak body for more than 1200 member clubs.

The proposed code would also require all NSW clubs to have a designated responsible gambling officer and would require some staff to undergo training in identifying problem gamblers.

Staff would also be required to conduct welfare checks on people at risk.

Patrons who borrow money, seek credit to gamble or admit to stealing money would be barred immediately and offered counselling.

People suspected of attempting to launder money through clubs would be hit with life bans from all clubs.

ClubsNSW chief executive Josh Landis said the plan showed the club industry was committed to protecting people from problem gambling.

The organisation had advocated for family interventions since 2012 because families were best placed to know if a loved one needed help.

“If someone appears to have a gambling problem, clubs will intervene and offer assistance,” Mr Landis said.

“We are prepared to protect people from themselves where it’s appropriate to do so.”

The measures would include patrons being approached to check they were OK, Mr Landis said.

“If your club requires you to take a break from gambling, just remember it’s because they care about you.”

The proposals were praised by the NSW government, which said it was consulted as part of the initiative.

“The NSW government welcomes proactive initiatives by industry to reduce gambling harms and prevent money laundering in clubs across NSW,” a spokesperson for Liquor and Gaming NSW told AAP.

 

Note: Member clubs can contact ClubsNSW directly for the proposed guidelines

 

Source: NSW clubs could ban problem gamblers (yahoo.com)