NSW unveils a broad package of gambling reforms featuring a statewide self-exclusion register with mandatory facial recognition at gaming room entrances, a third‑party exclusion scheme for hotels and clubs, a higher forfeiture rate for entitlements, and the end of VIP gaming programs.

The package tightens enforcement and penalties for gambling advertising, including restrictions on affiliate and influencer promotions, and harsher penalties for illegal online gambling and betting providers.

A state‑based strategy will be developed to reduce online gambling harm, with bans on gambling advertising on NSW Government and council assets and in unsolicited direct marketing.

The reforms respond to findings from the Independent Panel for Gaming Reform and the Crime Commission’s inquiry into money laundering via electronic gaming machines, informed by stakeholder consultation, while stopping short of a new tax on elite clubs.

The package has sparked privacy and civil liberties concerns over privacy, accuracy, bias, and discrimination, with privacy experts warning of potential issues.

Labor‑aligned pressure from Unions NSW and local government officials helped push at least partial reform, even though broader measures like a statewide cap or club tax were not included.

Minister David Harris describes the reforms as common‑sense, crafted with industry, harm‑minimisation groups, and privacy experts to balance safety with economic viability.

The reforms emphasize collaboration across industry and harm‑minimisation groups, aiming to implement up‑to‑date safety measures while supporting jobs in the sector.

The package is part of a national round‑up of news, signaling a broad, ongoing discussion about governance and policing alongside other topics.

Background data shows NSW 2024–25 reports of mid‑level gambling risk and higher risk indicators, framing the push for reform in the context of public health.

Existing FRT systems are expected to meet NIST FATE benchmarks for false negative/positive rates across demographics.

The reforms seek to diversify hospitality and live entertainment to reduce reliance on gaming machines while modernizing safety measures and protecting families and livelihoods.