TAS INTRODUCES STRONGER POKER MACHINE HARM MIN REFORMS
The Tasmanian Government has announced a comprehensive package of new harm minimisation measures for electronic gaming machines (EGMs) in hotels and clubs, reinforcing its commitment to protecting vulnerable patrons while preserving individual choice. The reforms, outlined by Treasurer Eric Abetz on 23 January 2026, represent one of the most significant updates to gaming regulation in the state in recent years.
A central change is the extension of mandatory gaming area closures. Currently, venues must close their gaming rooms for four hours each day at a time of their choosing. Under the new framework, this enforced shutdown will increase to seven hours in every 24-hour period—an increase of 75 per cent—designed to limit prolonged and continuous gambling sessions.
The reforms also introduce a Ticket In Ticket Out (TITO) system across hotels and clubs. To reduce the intensity of play, strict limits will apply: tickets may only be loaded with up to $200, and individual gaming machines may hold no more than $100 at any one time.
Machine numbers will also be more tightly controlled. While the current statewide cap of 2,350 EGMs has never been fully utilised, venues will have until 30 June 2026 to apply for licences up to that limit. After this date, a new cap will be set based on the number of machines actually taken up, with a planned gradual reduction over time through natural attrition—where every second surrendered or forfeited machine is permanently removed from the cap.
Significant changes are also planned for self-exclusion. Acknowledging that the current process is cumbersome, the Government will introduce new technology enabling immediate self-exclusion, supported by QR codes displayed in venues. To strengthen enforcement, facial recognition technology will become mandatory, using images of patrons registered under the Tasmanian Gambling Exclusion Scheme.
In a further shift, venues will be permitted to host on-site ATMs, provided they are equipped with facial recognition technology and subject to daily withdrawal limits, adding another safeguard against excessive gambling-related spending.
Treasurer Abetz said the reforms strike a balance between harm minimisation and personal agency, emphasising that the Government’s role is to protect those most at risk without unnecessarily restricting individual freedoms. He also confirmed that Tasmania will continue to monitor developments in other jurisdictions, including the progress of pre-commitment gaming cards, as part of its ongoing review of best practice in gambling regulation.
