The ACT Government’s independent inquiry into the future of clubs has opened consultation, and Canberrans can share their views on how the sector can reduce its reliance on poker machines while remaining financially viable.

A consultation paper released today outlines the challenges facing clubs and questions for the community.

Gaming machines remain a significant source of revenue for most clubs, but also contribute to gambling harm, the inquiry states. The ACT Government has set a target of reducing the number of gaming machine authorisations in the Territory to 1,000 by 2045, through trade forfeitures and compulsory surrenders every four years. There are currently 3,490, down from more than 5,000 in 2015. The inquiry states the government must work with the clubs sector to ensure the transition is sustainable.

“Clubs play an important part in the lives of many Canberrans, and this inquiry will help clubs continue contributing to the community without being reliant on gaming machine revenue,” gaming reform minister Dr Marisa Paterson MLA said.

Other aspects of the inquiry include financial sustainability, business activity, and workforce skills; the economic and social contribution of clubs; and beneficial use of club-held land.

The consultation paper is at https://www.act.gov.au/open/inquiry-into-the-act-clubs-industry.

The inquiry is “keen to hear from interested organisations and members of the community”, chair Annette Kimmitt AM said. They can take a short survey, provide documents or other information, through the inquiry’s web page or by emailing [email protected].

Questions include:

1. What contributions made by clubs to the ACT community need to be sustained and safeguarded as part of this transition?
2. What broader impact will this transition have (for example on the ACT community, cross-border issues, gambling harms), and how should these impacts be addressed?
3. What are your views on potential strategies to support clubs to make the transition away from gambling revenue? (for instance: regulatory changes, new uses of club-owned land such as affordable housing or aged care, training for workers)
4. How could club-owned land be used to create revenue opportunities and also contribute to sustainable economic, social and environmental outcomes for the ACT?
5. What are your views on the proposed guiding principles for strategies and solutions? What is missing?
6. Are there other insights or considerations you would like to share with the Inquiry Panel?

The panel, established in August, will deliver its findings and recommendations to the government next year.

ClubsACT welcomed Dr Paterson’s announcement establishing the consultation process for the independent inquiry into the future of Canberra’s club industry.

CEO Craig Shannon said: “Clubs are at the heart of our city’s social fabric — providing affordable meals, safe spaces for families, sporting facilities, entertainment, and millions of dollars in community contributions each year. The inquiry is a timely opportunity to chart a sustainable and vibrant future for our sector, ensuring clubs remain central to Canberra’s community life for generations to come. This consultation process is an important step in securing the future of our industry. ClubsACT strongly supports open dialogue about how we can diversify, strengthen financial sustainability, and keep delivering for the community. We commend the ACT Government and the independent inquiry panel for creating an inclusive process that invites genuine participation.

“Our clubs employ thousands of Canberrans, including a large proportion of casual and part-time workers, and we want to ensure their jobs are protected as the industry evolves. We know the community values clubs as safe, welcoming places for families, veterans, sportspeople, and social groups. This inquiry is a chance to safeguard that role while finding new ways to serve our members.

“The challenge before us is not just about reducing reliance on gaming revenue — it’s about building new revenue streams, investing in innovation, and giving clubs the regulatory certainty they need to plan for the long term. We also see this as an opportunity to reset the conversation. Too often, the role clubs play in supporting local sport, arts, multicultural events, and charitable causes is overlooked. This process can put that contribution front and centre.

“Ultimately, the future of the industry must be built in partnership — with government, with our workers, and most importantly, with the community we serve. That’s why I strongly encourage all stakeholders to engage with the consultation and help shape a sustainable path forward.

“ClubsACT looks forward to contributing constructively to the inquiry and will work closely with government, the independent panel, and the community to ensure the outcomes support both the long-term viability of clubs and the continued delivery of vital community services.”