Victoria Delays Rollout of Mandatory Carded Play in Favour of Broader Industry Consultation
Victoria has passed new gambling legislation introducing mandatory pre-commitment for gaming machines, but the planned trial of the system has been postponed to allow for further industry consultation and review of national approaches.
Bill Passed, But Carded Play Trial Delayed
Victoria’s Parliament has formally adopted the Gambling Legislation Amendment (Pre-commitment and Carded Play) Bill 2024, but the headline trial of mandatory carded play will not proceed as planned. The bill passed on 27 May 2025, advancing the state’s gambling reform agenda while temporarily suspending a key component.
The carded play system was originally scheduled for testing between May and June 2025. It would have required all players of electronic gaming machines to use a personalised player card, allowing them to set voluntary spending and time limits. Designed to curb problem gambling, the scheme was meant to standardise safer gambling behaviour through digital controls.
Government to Assess National Models and Consult Stakeholders
In a move that surprised few industry observers, the Victorian Government confirmed that the trial will be rescheduled following additional stakeholder engagement. Officials intend to study the effectiveness of similar systems elsewhere in Australia and consider “technology-neutral” solutions that might better suit the state’s regulatory framework.
“Implementation timelines will be determined through consultations and review of national best practices,” the government stated, indicating a willingness to refine its approach before moving forward.
Future progress on the carded play initiative will be guided by ministerial directions and detailed regulations, still to be developed. The government has signalled it will work closely with venue operators, industry representatives and harm reduction experts to ensure any system introduced is both effective and practical.