Released 22/08/2025
The ACT Government has taken another step toward reducing gambling harm and supporting the future of local clubs with today’s launch of an independent inquiry into revenue diversification. The inquiry is premised on the ACT Government’s commitment to see machines reduced to 1000 by 2045. The inquiry will explore practical strategies to see clubs transition to a sustainable future without a reliance on poker machine revenue.
Former CEO of Victoria’s Gambling and Casino Control Commission, Annette Kimmitt AM, will chair the inquiry. Ms Kimmitt brings extensive experience in gambling regulation and reform, having led strategic and operational transformation at the Gambling and Casino Control Commission to improve Victoria’s gambling industry.
The inquiry panel will include:
- Annette Kimmitt AM, chair
- John Body, ThinkPlace partner
- Bobbi Campbell, Synergy Group partner
The panel will be supported by members from lead consultancy ThinkPlace, part of Synergy Group, which secured the contract to form the inquiry panel following a competitive open tender process.
The inquiry will be guided by the terms of reference, which were released in April 2025. The panel will develop an industry transition plan with local clubs, outlining alternative income streams and workforce transition strategies.
Talks with the clubs sector and other stakeholders will start shortly, with the panel expected to deliver its final report to the government by mid-2026.
The 2024 ACT Gambling Prevalence Survey found 15.8% (58,075 ACT residents) experienced some level of gambling related harm. The form of gambling most commonly associated with harm was poker machines. The findings also suggest that young men are disproportionately affected by harm from these machines. When asked about attitudes towards harm minimisation measures, about two-thirds of respondents supported a reduction in the number of electronic gaming machines in Canberra, with nearly half indicating a preference for a significant decrease.
Further information about the work of the inquiry can be found on the ACT Government’s website at: https://www.act.gov.au/open/inquiry-into-the-act-clubs-industry
Quotes attributable to Minister for Gaming Reform, Dr Marisa Paterson:
“We know that poker machines cause serious harm to individuals, families and the broader community. This inquiry is about supporting clubs to remain places of connection and belonging, while shaping a future that reduces the harm from poker machines in the ACT.”
“The government has already made significant progress reducing machine numbers, including exceeding our targeted reduction to 3,500 poker machines by 1 July 2025. We will continue to closely collaborate with clubs as they diversify their revenue, support their workforce and ensure they remain strong, community-oriented organisations.
“While the ACT Government will pursue a sustained reduction in access to machines over the next 20 years, it is imperative that harm-reduction measures are implemented in venues in the short term. The ACT Government is progressing exciting work that will see the introduction of account-based gaming in venues to reduce the harm that is caused through a range of measures.
“I look forward to considering the panel’s recommendations once tabled next year.”
Quotes attributable to Independent Inquiry into the Future of the ACT Clubs Industry Chair, Annette Kimmitt AM:
“I am enthusiastic about leading this inquiry and recognise the important role clubs play in the social fabric of Canberra, supporting local jobs and grassroots sport.
“Reducing gambling harm at ACT clubs will have a positive impact on the entire community. I look forward to meeting with representatives from the clubs industry and other stakeholders over coming months as we develop a plan for clubs to transition away from reliance on gaming revenue.”
- Statement ends -
Marisa Paterson, MLA | Media Releases