The NSW Government is pleased to announce that it has begun community consultation into the effectiveness of the Clubgrants scheme as part of a wider review to ensure the social benefit of grants programs. To support the community consultation the Government has also released a discussion paper. 

Minister for Gaming and Racing, Davis Harris, has said that “The NSW Government is committed to ensuring integrity and public trust in Government grants.” 

Clubgrants enables eligible clubs to contribute a portion of gaming machine profits to local community services through grants and in return can receive a tax concession. 

The Government has released a discussion paper that provides insight into Clubgrants, the terms of reference and targeted questions to help guide submissions. There is also a survey for those who do not wish to write a submission.  

The public consultation will enable key stakeholders, participants, and members of the public to provide feedback and have their say as part of the review. 

The Review into the ClubGrants Scheme was announced in collaboration with the Independent Panel on Gaming Reform, which brings together representatives from industry, harm minimisation advocacy groups, law enforcement, unions, and people with lived experience to build consensus on a roadmap to reform. 

Recently, Trish met with Brian Turner and Nick Darias, President and CEO of Katoomba RSL respectively, to speak about their support for the Clubgrants scheme. 

Trish Doyle MP has said "Through local clubs such as Katoomba RSL, much-needed community infrastructure is funded. By opening our ClubGrants review to the public, Labor is building resilience in grant processes to better serve our local community."  

It adds to the several reforms already undertaken by the Minns Government to reduce gambling harm and prevent money laundering. This key election commitment including reducing the cash input on all new poker machines, investing $100 million into gambling harm minimisation over the term and banning political donations from clubs involved in gaming. 

Liquor & Gaming NSW is seeking feedback until 18 March 2024. To read the discussion paper and have your say, please visit: https://www.liquorandgaming.nsw.gov.au/documents/public-consultations/ClubGRANTS-Review-Discussion-Paper.pdf