Australian Capital Territory government announces inquiry into clubs
The inquiry will examine how clubs can reduce reliance on gambling revenue.
Australia.- The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) government has announced that it has approved the establishment of an independent inquiry to examine how clubs can diversify their revenue streams and reduce reliance on gambling revenue.
The inquiry will also focus on financial sustainability, business activities and workforce training and support. It will examine the economic and social impact of clubs and find ways to mitigate any negative effects of the transition. The inquiry will also identify if future uses of club-owned land can provide community benefits, including affordable housing, aged care and supported accommodation.
The independent inquiry is due to start in the middle of this year. The government expects a report to be submitted in early 2026.
Minister for gaming reform Marisa Paterson said: “Economics or business transition skill sets would be strongly encouraged to apply. It may be an individual, it may be a group of individuals, or a consultancy, but [we’re] really looking for the appropriate skills to be able to do this really important work.
“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.”
Paterson said the inquiry will progress the ACT government’s goal of 1,000 gaming machines in the territory by 2045. She stated: “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.”
ClubsACT CEO Craig Shannon issued a statement welcoming the initiative. He said: “The not-for-profit club sector in Canberra is a fundamental foundation stone of the social cohesion of the ACT community, with its support for and key role in the sporting, cultural and social fabric of our community.
“We are confident that the inquiry will provide transparency to the government of the importance of our clubs and the need to maintain their sustainability into the future.”
