The Victorian government has delayed the trial of its mandatory pre-commitment system known as carded play, which was originally scheduled to begin mid-2025.
In March, the government had announced a three-month trial would be carried out at approximately 40 venues before the system’s state-wide rollout by the end of the year. However, the Gambling Legislation Amendment (Pre-commitment and Carded Play) Bill 2024, which underpins the reforms, was only debated in and passed by Parliament on Tuesday 27 May.
According to the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC), the timeframes for implementing the reforms will now be updated following the Bill’s passage.
The VGCCC stated that the additional time would allow for the examination of nationwide best practices and exploration of technology-neutral options to test and facilitate the scheme. Further ministerial directions and supporting regulations will be developed for consideration, with consultation to follow with industry and stakeholders before the trial commences.
Despite the changes to the trial’s timing, Minister for Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation Enver Erdogan said the government is committed to implementing the reforms.
“Too many Victorians are experiencing gambling harm,” he said.
“We will work closely with industry and other groups to implement these reforms at venues across the state. We’ve always said this would be a phased approach to ensure we get implementation right and bring industry along with us.
“We also want to ensure that these reforms stand the test of time, and that means ensuring they are making use of the best and latest technologies.”
Community Clubs Victoria CEO Andrew Lloyd welcomed the delay, believing it “represents a sensible and appropriate course of action”.
“We have previously called for a pause and a formal inquiry process, and we believe this is a good strategy,” he said.
“This decision aligns with inquiries already underway in other states and territories, and it would be prudent for Victoria to do the same.
“While we support harm minimisation, successful implementation depends on good change management. That means ensuring systems are properly tested and evaluated.”