Clubs, community, members, researchers, and other stakeholders are being invited to provide their submissions as part of the independent inquiry into the future of ACT clubs.
It comes after the independent panel released a consultation paper that provides an overview of the challenges, the current state, proposed principles that will guide the panels deliberations, and key questions the panel will be considering over the course of the inquiry process.
“The inquiry panel is excited to be formally commencing our consultation with the release of our consultation paper,” panel chair Annette Kimmitt said.
“We recognise the important role clubs play in the social fabric of the ACT and are keen to hear from all interested organisations and members of the community”.
The inquiry will explore practical strategies to help clubs remain financially viable while diversifying away from a reliance on gambling revenue.
The panel said as part of its deliberative process, it will engage with clubs, community members, researchers and other stakeholders to hear their perspectives, insights and ideas.
ClubsACT CEO Craig Shannon said the consultation process is an important step in securing the future of our industry.
“Clubs are at the heart of our city’s social fabric – providing affordable meals, safe spaces for families, sporting facilities, entertainment, and millions of dollars in community contributions each year. The inquiry is a timely opportunity to chart a sustainable and vibrant future for our sector, ensuring clubs remain central to Canberra’s community life for generations to come,” he said.
“ClubsACT strongly supports open dialogue about how we can diversify, strengthen financial sustainability, and keep delivering for the community. We commend the ACT government and the independent inquiry panel for creating an inclusive process that invites genuine participation,” he said.
Minister for Gaming Reform Marisa Paterson welcomed the commencement of the consultation and encouraged interested people and organisations to engage with the inquiry process.
“The ACT government is committed to working with the community and clubs to build a strong, sustainable industry,” she said.
“Clubs play an important part in the lives of many Canberrans, and this inquiry will help clubs continue contributing to the community without being reliant on gaming machine revenue.”
“This independent inquiry will help identify practical strategies as we work towards reducing the number of gaming machines in Canberra to 1,000 by 2045.”
“I encourage individuals and groups who are interested in ensuring a successful future for the clubs industry to read the consultation paper and engage with the independent panel’s consultation.”
The consultation paper is available here.
Input can be provided by taking a short survey or by providing documents or other information, through the inquiry web page.
The inquiry panel will also hold the first series of roundtable meetings with stakeholders in late October 2025 to understand the benefits clubs provide to the community, as well as consider the challenges and opportunities for clubs in transitioning away from reliance on gambling revenue.
Further workshops in late 2025 and early 2026 will consider ideas to inform the development of an industry transition plan and the panel’s final report to government.
If you would like to attend a roundtable meeting or provide documents or other information, you can email actclubsinquiry@thinkplace.com.au.