NSW Government Urges Public Input on Clubgrants Scheme   Mirage News – 23 Dec 2023

The NSW Government has released a discussion paper and begun community consultation into the effectiveness of the Clubgrants scheme, as part of a wider review to ensure the grants program is providing a social benefit to the people of NSW.

The consultation period will be open until 18 March 2024.

Clubgrants enables eligible registered clubs to contribute a portion of gaming machine profits to local community services, projects and infrastructure through grants, and receive a tax concession in return.

The discussion paper provides background on Clubgrants, the terms of reference and targeted questions to help guide submissions. There is also a survey for those who do not want to write a submission.

The public consultation will enable key stakeholders, participants, and members of the public to provide feedback and have their say as part of the review.

Liquor & Gaming NSW is seeking feedback from 23 December 2023 until 18 March 2024. Read the discussion paper and have your say.

The Review into the ClubGrants Scheme was announced in tandem with the Independent Panel on Gaming Reform, which brings together representatives from industry, harm minimisation advocacy groups, law enforcement, unions and a person with lived experience to build consensus on a roadmap for reform.

It adds to a number of reforms already undertaken by the Minns Government to reduce gambling harm and prevent money laundering:

§  reduced the cash input limit from $5,000 to $500 for all new poker machines from 1 July

§  reduced the statewide cap on gaming machine entitlements by more than 3,000

§  banned political donations from clubs involved in gaming

§  removed VIP gaming signage across NSW

§  invested $100m into gambling harm minimisation over the next four years.

Minister for Gaming and Racing David Harris said:

"The NSW Government is committed to ensuring integrity and public trust in government grants.

"The Clubgrants scheme has not been formally reviewed by government since 2013, so this review will give the community and key stakeholders a chance to have their say on its effectiveness.

"Registered clubs are part of the social fabric in local communities across NSW, and the Clubgrants scheme helps to provide vital local services, projects and infrastructure.

"Feedback from a broad range of stakeholders and members of the public is critical to ensure their views are considered.

"I encourage everyone to read the discussion paper and provide a submission or complete the survey before 18 March. Your feedback about the scheme will form an important part of our review."