Return to normal view

Accessibility of Gaming Machines

In Victoria, there are several restrictions on the number of gaming machines and their distribution. These measures are aimed at controlling access to gambling opportunities, particularly in areas vulnerable to problem gambling.

Number of machines

The total number of Electronic Gaming Machines (EGMs) in Victoria is capped at 30,000. Within this total:

• the Casino is allowed no more than 2,500 machines
• Tabcorp and Tattersall's are limited to 13,750 machines each.

The number of machines in each gaming venue, except the Casino, is limited to 105.

Overall distribution of machines

The distribution of gaming machines is limited by requirements that:

• at least 20 per cent of all gaming machines in Victoria must be outside the Melbourne metropolitan area
• 50 per cent of all gaming machines in the state must be in hotels, and the other 50 per cent in clubs.

Regional caps

Regional caps seek to limit access to gambling opportunities in vulnerable communities. On 12 October 2006, the Minister for Gaming made an order increasing the number of capped regions to 19. The boundaries for capped regions are based on local government boundaries.

The cap is set at 10 gaming machines per thousand adults or the existing density of gaming machines in the region as at 12 October 2006, whichever is lower. The government has set the cap at this level to respond to community concerns regarding the number of gaming machines without going beyond what is justified by the available research.    

Limit on 24-hour venues

Regulations on 24-hour gaming venues vary according to location:

• 24-hour venues are not allowed in regional and rural Victoria
• 24-hour venues are allowed in the Melbourne metropolitan area if the liquor licence of the venue allows for it, and if a net economic and social benefit can be demonstrated.