Date: March 25, 2026
Category: Regulation & Harm Minimization
Summary:
The Minns Labor government in New South Wales has taken a significant step to reduce gambling harm by revoking more than 650 gaming machine exemptions. These exemptions previously allowed pubs and clubs to operate gaming machines during standard shutdown hours. From April 1, 2026, these venues will be required to shut down all gaming machines between 4 AM and 10 AM daily, aligning with the state’s standard shutdown hours. This six-hour mandatory break is a harm minimization measure designed to provide players with a crucial pause in play. Of the 672 venues that previously held varied shutdown periods, 649 exemptions have been revoked by Liquor & Gaming NSW, with 13 still under assessment. The move targets outdated exemptions, some of which have been in place for over 20 years, often granted for reasons like being in high-traffic tourist locations or financial hardship .
