Employees working in gaming venues across Tasmania will undertake training on a more regular basis, after action taken by the Tasmanian Government.
Minister for Finance, Nic Street, said the Government is taking action to deliver on its commitment to implement a number of poker machine harm reduction initiatives.
"Under our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania's Future we committed that responsible conduct of gambling training be undertaken by relevant employees every two years, instead of the current requirement of every five years," Minister Street said.
"The training is regulated through the Tasmanian Liquor and Gaming Commission's Responsible Gambling Code of Practice.
"A Direction has today been gazetted, requesting the Commission implement a requirement that Responsible Conduct of Gambling training be undertaken every two years."
Employees that interact with patrons are currently required to complete a Responsible Conduct of Gambling course approved by the Commission within three months of commencing their employment, and every five years thereafter.
"The Commission is best placed to determine what is required, from a practical perspective, to increase the frequency of the training requirement," Minister Street said.
"In implementing the Direction I have requested the Commission consider such things as the cost to employees of the additional training as well as the ability of registered training organisations to deliver additional courses."
The Government's expectation in increasing the frequency of training should occur as soon as practicable. This has been included in the Direction issued to the Commission.
"The direction also includes a requirement that opportunities for industry to support the training requirement are considered," Minister Street said.
"It is important the hospitality industry is consulted on actions to strengthen gaming training.
"The Government will work with key stakeholders to implement this commitment, to ensure Responsible Conduct of Gambling training meets the needs of industry and helps to minimise harm from poker machines."
The Government is committed to poker machine harm reduction, while also providing the opportunity for people to exercise their free choice.
The Ministerial Direction was published in the Tasmanian Gazette on 25 September and can be found here.
