Record poker machine losses expose gambling reform failure
The Echo
Record $4.75 billion in poker machine losses over six months in NSW proves the Minns Government is failing to implement effective gambling reforms.Summary
New data from Wesley Mission analysis reveals NSW residents lost a record $4.75 billion on poker machines in the first half of 2026, equating to over $26 million per day. Greens MP Cate Faehrmann criticizes the Minns Government for failing to tackle gambling harm, stating that while reforms are announced, losses continue to rise. The harm is concentrated in specific communities like Canterbury-Bankstown and Fairfield. Faehrmann argues the government's current measures, such as optional card-based play, are insufficient and renews calls for mandatory cashless gambling, reduced operating hours, and a plan to lower the total number of poker machines in NSW, warning the state is heading towards $10 billion in annual losses.
(Source：The Echo)