Two operators fined over breaches of new gaming machine shutdown rules in New South Wales
Regulators have audited 51 venues and are reviewing another 70 following the removal of exemptions for more than 650 pubs and clubs.
Key takeaways:
- In April, New South Wales removed exemptions from 650 venues that had allowed them not to observe requirements for pubs and clubs to switch off gaming machines between 4am and 10am.
- Liquor & Gaming NSW is now enforcing the change. It’s audited 51 venues and is reviewing another 70 across the state.
- So far, the Crown Hotel in Camden and East Cessnock Bowling Club have received fines for shutdown compliance breaches.
Australia.- Liquor & Gaming NSW has fined two venues so far as it seeks to enforce new gaming machine shutdown rules. The regulator is carrying out inspections following the removal of exemptions for more than 650 pubs and clubs in April.
Pubs and clubs must switch off gaming machines between 4am and 10am. This six-hour daily shutdown is intended as a measure to help reduce gambling harm by preventing continuous, extended play during the early morning hours. Since the changes came into effect in April, regulators have audited 51 venues across Sydney, the Hunter region, and the North Coast, while another 70 venues are under review.
Enforcement efforts have resulted in fines for the Crown Hotel in Camden and the East Cessnock Bowling Club, and a caution to a third venue and disciplinary proceedings against another. For minor, isolated issues or technical problems outside a venue’s control, 32 establishments received education and compliance support rather than financial penalties.
L&GNSW executive director of Regulatory Operations, Dimitri Argeres, said: “The six-hour shutdown period is an important safeguard that supports harm minimisation by providing a guaranteed break in gaming machine operation each day,” said Argeres. “While it’s pleasing that the vast majority of reviewed venues have met their obligations, we have identified a small number of breaches resulting in penalties, regulatory action and ongoing investigations.”
The government announced in August 2026 that it would review the mandatory shutdown rules with further changes possible.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
- What are the mandatory pokie shutdown hours in New South Wales? Gaming machines in NSW pubs and clubs must be switched off every day between 4am and 10am, creating a six-hour break in operation.
- Have any New South Wales been fined for pokie shutdown breaches? The Crown Hotel in Camden and East Cessnock Bowling Club have received fines. Regulators have also issued a caution to another venue and initiated disciplinary proceedings against a fourth.
- Will New South Wales change its pokie shutdown rules? The NSW Government announced a review in August 2026. Officials are considering potential changes in consultation with community groups and industry representatives, citing evidence that high-risk gamblers are more active during early morning hours.
