Research into the separation of ATMs and gaming machines in NSW (2017)

About the study

This report, by Schottler Consulting, investigated the minimum separation distance for ATMs and electronic gaming machines (EGMs) in response to a recommendation from the NSW Legislative Council Select Committee on the Impact of Gambling in 2014.

The methodology

Methods encompassed a literature review, stakeholder consultations (11 industry stakeholders and 14 gambling counsellors and staff), four qualitative focus groups with EGM players (two groups each with non-problem/low-risk gamblers and moderate-risk/problem gamblers) and a quantitative online panel survey of 700 EGM players (this included 226 non-problem gamblers, 138 low risk gamblers, 159 moderate risk gamblers and 177 problem gamblers).

Key findings

There is a potential harm-minimisation benefit in placing ATMs at a minimum distance from the gaming area entrance in NSW venues. Placing ATMs at a minimum distance of 30 metres from and out of the line of sight of the gaming room was identified as having a greater harm-minimisation impact for problem and at-risk gamblers than other distances. However, the report notes that establishing a 30-metre distance between ATMs and the gaming area may provide only a relatively small incremental cost benefit to problem gamblers and at-risk gamblers. It also notes that the capacity for individual venues to relocate ATMs at a minimum distance of 30 metres from the gaming room and the associated costs will vary significantly across venues, and therefore the issue requires further investigation.

NSW Government response

The harm minimisation impact of third party exclusion schemes and possible future directions for NSW and Research into the separation of ATMs and gaming machines in NSW were commissioned as part of the NSW Government’s response in 2015 to the recommendations of the Legislative Council Select Committee on the Impact of Gambling (2014).

Gambling treatment specialists and counsellors, and industry stakeholders, were consulted as part of this research.

The Government takes the impact of gambling on vulnerable people seriously, and considers the findings of these reports as part of its ongoing commitment to ensuring a responsible gambling environment in NSW.

Suggested citation

Schottler Consulting (2017) Research into the separation of ATMs and gaming machines in NSW, Liquor & Gaming NSW, Sydney.