Hotel Fined for Forcing Patrons to Exit Through Gaming Room

Under the GMA, patrons should not be required to walk through a gaming area to enter or exit the premises, or to access other facilities within the venue, such as bathrooms. 

These restrictions are in place to reduce any potential gaming harm.  Liquor & Gaming NSW (L&GNSW) had previously issued alerts to hotels and clubs reminding them of these obligations. 

L&GNSW as part of a compliance inspection in August 2023 found the hotel’s main bar’s exit door was locked and the only way to leave the hotel was through the gaming room. 

The hotel was then prosecuted for this issue and after the licensee plead guilty to the breach, was ordered to pay a fine of $2250.

 “Apart from breaking the law, the licensee put patrons at potential risk of harm by compelling them to walk through the gaming room to leave the venue… licensees who fail to abide by gaming machine regulations can expect to be caught and prosecuted,” said Jane Lin, L&GNSW Executive Director of Regulatory Operations.

This serious breach highlights the importance for all club staff to be aware that club access points and walkthroughs must not require accessing the gaming area. 

It also demonstrates that L&GNSW will take action against venues not complying with this specific requirement and other regulatory obligations.

If you have any questions, please contact ClubASSIST on 1300 730 001 or [email protected].