As part of the next step toward reducing the number of poker machines in the ACT to 1,000 by 2045, an independent inquiry will be launched into the future of the ACT club industry, focused on helping clubs diversify their revenue and reduce reliance on gambling income.
The ACT Government will shortly release an open tender to conduct the Independent inquiry into the future of the ACT clubs industry, with a report due back to government in early 2026.
Minister for Gaming Reform, Dr Marisa Paterson, said the inquiry would explore ways for clubs to diversify their revenue streams and reduce reliance on gambling revenue.
"The ACT Government is committed to addressing the harm caused by gambling. A key part of that work is supporting the club sector to move away from reliance on gambling revenue, so the industry can become more sustainable and continue to thrive in ways that benefit the entire community." Dr Paterson said.
"Clubs play an important role in fostering community connection, we want to work to see a sustainable club sector in the ACT. That means working with them to transition to different, more sustainable business models."
"This inquiry is a significant step toward progressing the ACT Governments goal of 1,000 poker machines in the ACT by 2045. We're already on track to reduce gaming machine authorisations to 3,500 by 1 July 2025, down from 4,956 in 2018. This reduction has been supported by targeted assistance to help clubs diversify their operations."
"While many clubs have made great progress in diversifying, there is still significant work to be done – this inquiry is aimed at understanding what that work should involve. This will include developing a 20-year roadmap to support the transition of the sector."
The inquiry will identify practical options, timeframes and measures to support the club industry, its workforce and other stakeholders during the transition, including:
- Possible changes to regulatory or tax settings to support the establishment of alternative revenue streams for clubs.
- Skills and training requirements for club sector workers to support repositioned industry activity or workforce transitions.
- Future uses of club-owned land to provide community benefits, including affordable housing, aged care and supported accommodation.
The economic and social contributions of the club sector will also be measured to inform the economic analysis.
Parties interested in participating in the open tender to conduct the Inquiry can visit www.tenders.act.gov.au where they can register as a supplier and then submit a response to the request for quotation, when it is released.
