According to a new study, consumers in New South Wales who play poker machines at late hours are more likely than others to develop gambling problems.
The study, entitled “The Impact on Electronic Gaming Machines (EGM) late night play on EGM Player Behaviors”, looked at players who played pokies machines in the evening.
It was found in the report that those with gambling issues were the majority of players at late-night machines. The report also noted that two thirds of those who played between 2am-8am had “significant” adverse consequences.
NSW Independent Liquor & Gaming Authority said that it will use this research as a guide to future decisions about rules and regulations on late-night gaming.
Minimise gambling harm
Caroline Lamb, ILGA Chairperson said: “As part our statutory obligations to minimise harm related to gaming, ILGA’s study conclusions will be used to inform future decision-making.”
The ILGA implemented a series of measures designed to minimize gambling harm, and also address the concerns regarding applications which increase availability of gaming devices after midnight.
Guideline 16 was developed to reduce the harm caused by gambling after midnight, and promote responsible gambling.
This includes the requirement that any gaming related application be accompanied with a Gaming Plan of Management, which contains measures to help licensees minimise harm caused by gambling in their venues.
The ILGA places conditions on applications relating to gaming in order to reduce the risk of harm from gambling.
Roy Morgan Research conducted the study, which was supported by Liquor & Gaming NSW with funding from NSW’s Responsible Gaming Fund.
