Responsible Service of Gambling online course launched
Staff at venues where gambling services are available now have to complete a Responsible Service of Gambling course every three years.
The free online course ensures staff are up to date with the latest harm minimisation strategies for problem gambling.
Developed by the NT Government in partnership with Hospitality NT, the course is part of a raft of measures to strengthen the Territory’s gambling regulatory framework.
The Territory Government’s updated Code of Practice for Responsible Gambling follows a review undertaken earlier this year.
The Code aims to minimise the harms associated with problem gambling by providing clearer information to enable patrons to make informed decisions about their gambling habits and self-exclusion options; and to provide clearer training requirements and pathways for staff and managers.
Key changes to the Code include:
- replacing the Community Liaison Officer role with Gaming Machine Managers as they hold a licence issued under the Gaming Machine Act 1995;
- all gaming areas must be clearly marked and separated from general amenities, signage must be placed in a prominent position at each entrance to gaming areas;
- EFTPOS and ATM facilities have access to debit accounts only;
- banning all advertising that promotes gaming in any manner including free or discounted accommodation, transportation or the offer of jackpots, prizes and gifts;
- new staff engaged in the provision of gambling services must complete the nationally accredited unit of competency ‘SITHGAM001 – Provide Responsible Gambling Services’ within 3 months of commencing employment; and
- hospitality staff must undertake and successfully complete compulsory training every 3 years to ensure they are up to date with the latest harm minimisation strategies.
Licensing NT will continue to work with businesses and industry associations to ensure compliance with the new Code.
To read the code visit nt.gov.au website
