Inside AGE 2022

We are against those ideas but that does not mean we are against reform. We are in favour of measures such as digital wallet so that people can engage in gambling just as they can in any other activity in society – using their phone or a card to tap. But it is not our job or government’s job to determine what that technology should be. That’s up to the consumer to tell us what the technology is that they want to use. Our objective is to ensure that technology does not cause harm, and that a payment mechanism is just that – a payment mechanism. BB: Does the Code of Practice address anti-money laundering specifically? J L : O n e t h i n g w e h a v e recommended i s a cheque register or an EFT register so if someone wins over a certain amount that is not paid in cash, that there is a record made and it is shared with police so they can see if someone is getting significant payouts, because that would be a red flag. This would have no impact and would be of no concern to the normal patron but would be of concern to a money launderer. We see that as a measure that provides no risk and would be very effective. BB: Finally Josh, we’ve spoken about the challenges facing the clubs industry, but how about opportunities? Why will the industry flourish in future? JL: I think humans are social c r e a t u r e s a n d t h e y n e e d interaction. The best place to interact – and has been for millennia – is at a venue over some dr i nks . Mos t peop l e met their partner over some drinks at a venue and that trend will continue. People will want those experiences to be great, to remain available and attractive. So there will always be a role for pubs and clubs and casinos. We will push each other competitively and that is to the benefit of the consumer. Th e r e i s a r i s k a r o u n d whether poker machines will rema i n re l evant g i ven that people can do many things on their phone, so there are real challenges for gaming long term, but for the industry there are plenty of opportunities. We just need to be prepared to mount our arguments so we can evo l ve and rema i n relevant.