New measures to strengthen NT's gambling regulations

8 August 2022

Staff at venues where gambling services are available now have to complete a Responsible Service of Gambling course every three years.

The free online course ensures staff are up to date with the latest harm minimisation strategies for problem gambling.

Developed by the NT Government in partnership with Hospitality NT, the course is part of a raft of measures to strengthen the Territory’s gambling regulatory framework.

The Territory Labor Government has today announced its updated Code of Practice for Responsible Gambling, which follows a review undertaken earlier this year.

The Code aims to minimise the harms associated with problem gambling by providing clearer information to enable patrons to make informed decisions about their gambling habits and self-exclusion options; and to provide clearer training requirements and pathways for staff.

Key changes to the Code include:

replacing the Community Liaison Officer role with Gaming Machine Managers as they hold a licence issued under the Gaming Machine Act 1995;
all gaming areas must be clearly marked and separated from general amenities, signage must be placed in a prominent position at each entrance to gaming areas;
EFTPOS and ATM facilities have access to debit accounts only;
discounted accommodation, transportation, or the offer of jackpots, prizes and gifts;
new staff engaged in the provision of gambling services must complete the nationally accredited unit of competency ‘SITHGAM001 – Provide Responsible Gambling Services’ within three months of commencing employment; and
hospitality staff must undertake and successfully complete compulsory training every three years to ensure they are up to date with the latest harm minimisation strategies for problem gambling.

Licensing NT will continue to work with businesses and industry associations to ensure compliance with the new Code.

To view the 2022 Code of Practice for Responsible Gambling, see here.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Racing, Gaming and Licensing Chansey Paech:

“The Territory Labor Government takes gambling related harm very seriously. It is important that our regulatory gambling framework remains effective and in line with best-practice and community expectations.

“It is imperative that everybody involved in the Territory’s hospitality industry from regulators, licensees and staff understand the role that they play in delivering a responsible and sustainable industry.

“The online refresher course will ensure that staff are aware of all harm minimisation strategies that contribute to safe and responsible gambling environments.

Quotes attributable to Hospitality NT CEO Alex Bruce:

“Hospitality NT is excited to have partnered with Licensing NT to create this NT specific, free and online Responsible Service of Gambling refresher course.

“The online course provides more flexibility and accessibility for hospitality staff to undertake this important training.

“A year ago we similarly launched the NT specific, free, and online Responsible Service of Alcohol refresher course and to date nearly 3,000 Territorians have completed the course, showing how popular this form of industry compliance training is.”

Media Contact: Jasmin Afianos - 0419 361 127

Northern Territory Government