ClubSAFE Providing Involuntary Exclusions

Earlier this year, ClubsNSW overhauled the MVSE platform by improving the functionality. The changes will make way for new enhancements such as future integrations with facial recognition technology and the management of involuntary exclusions.

Unlike self-exclusions, involuntary exclusions are gambling-only bans initiated by either the venue (venue-initiated) or a close relation to a person who gambles (also known as third-party exclusions or family-initiated exclusions).  

ClubSAFE Support

For ClubSAFE members, the team will support you through all stages of the involuntary exclusion process. This includes liaising with a family member and advising what information should be sought, as well as counselling the patron. ClubSAFE will then recommend whether the exclusion should be enforced and, on confirmation from the club, enter the exclusion into the MVSE system.

Should you use another gambling counselling service, they will be able to advise what support is available.

Venue-Initiated Exclusions

Under the Club Gaming Code of Practice, a club may initiate an exclusion for a player who is exhibiting behaviours that indicate serious gambling related harm. The exclusion is for gaming areas only, but if the player breaches or attempts to breach the exclusion order on two or more occasions, the club can impose an entire venue ban.

Family-Initiated Exclusions

Concerned family members — such as a spouse, domestic partner, adult child or parent of an adult child — can apply for a family-initiated exclusion. The request can include multiple venues and it is a gaming area-only exclusion. Privacy and confidentiality are paramount, and no details of the family member requesting the involuntary exclusion order are to be disclosed.  

Involuntary exclusions last 12 months and cannot be contested by the patron until at least six months has elapsed. If a patron contests the involuntary exclusion, the Code of Practice Adjudication Panel will review the exclusion and provide a final determination.

These new measures give venues and family members more control over patrons at risk of gambling related harm. Further details can be found here.