The ACT Government has taken another step toward reducing gambling harm and supporting the future of local clubs with today's launch of an independent inquiry into revenue diversification. The inquiry is premised on the ACT Government's commitment to see machines reduced to 1000 by 2045. The inquiry will explore practical strategies to see clubs transition to a sustainable future without a reliance on poker machine revenue.
Former CEO of Victoria's Gambling and Casino Control Commission, Annette Kimmitt AM, will chair the inquiry. Ms Kimmitt brings extensive experience in gambling regulation and reform, having led strategic and operational transformation at the Gambling and Casino Control Commission to improve Victoria's gambling industry.
The inquiry panel will include:
- Annette Kimmitt AM, chair
- John Body, ThinkPlace partner
- Bobbi Campbell, Synergy Group partner
The panel will be supported by members from lead consultancy ThinkPlace, part of Synergy Group, which secured the contract to form the inquiry panel following a competitive open tender process.
The inquiry will be guided by the terms of reference, which were released in April 2025. The panel will develop an industry transition plan with local clubs, outlining alternative income streams and workforce transition strategies.
Talks with the clubs sector and other stakeholders will start shortly, with the panel expected to deliver its final report to the government by mid-2026.
The 2024 ACT Gambling Prevalence Survey found 15.8% (58,075 ACT residents) experienced some level of gambling related harm. The form of gambling most commonly associated with harm was poker machines. The findings also suggest that young men are disproportionately affected by harm from these machines. When asked about attitudes towards harm minimisation measures, about two-thirds of respondents supported a reduction in the number of electronic gaming machines in Canberra, with nearly half indicating a preference for a significant decrease.
