2025 April ClubsACTion Magazine by ClubsACT

From the CEO - ACT Government Club Inquiry

The ACT Government have now commenced liaising with us on the Terms of Reference for the proposed Club Industry Inquiry. Thankfully our request that the Inquiry remain focused on Clubs not poker gambling per se has been accepted and there seems a strong commitment to have a mature approach to the Inquiry by looking at the economic and social role of clubs in the ACT and hopefully recommend pathways to a viable future for the industry in the ACT. We were consulted on the draft Terms of Reference proposed by the Government and the final version should be available soon. It has proposed going through a procurement process to find a person/firm to conduct the inquiry which would place the process at arm’s length from the minister and the appointment once the process has commenced would not be made directly by the Minister. We have asked a series of questions about the conduct of the inquiry and are awaiting those answers and more detail as to timeframe.

Meetings with Minister Paterson

Our recent discussions with the new Minister have covered a wide range of issues some and key matters. We welcome the consultative approach being taken by the Government with respect to the many industry issues we are facing at this time and hope to maintain a productive working relationship throughout this term.

The meetings have been frank and open, and the Minister again expressed her desire to work with the industry to achieve long term sustainability but also re-iterated her commitments to Cashless Gaming and reviewing harm minimisation regulations.

The ALP election commitments form the basis of the Government agenda.

The policy is:

• legislate a 20-year plan to reduce machine numbers in the Territory to 1,000 by 2045, through a mandated reduction of 500 machines every four years.

• establish a Community Clubs Divestment Team in the ACT public service to support our community clubs through the planning system to diversify.

• work with clubs to identify priority projects and developments such as affordable housing, aged care, and build-to-rent options.

• collaborate to create a ‘club of the future’ in the Molonglo Valley—a community club without pokies.

• introduce mandatory, account-based cashless gaming by 2026-27. This will include mandatory pre-commitment, mandated breaks in play, delayed top-up mechanism, delayed access to winnings.

• revolutionise self-exclusion schemes to be account based exclusion, not facial recognitionbased exclusion.

• ban ATMs and EFTPOS withdrawals in clubs (multiple withdrawals from ATMs/EFTPOS is the most common reported behaviour that contributes to gambling harm in ACT gambling venues).

ClubsACT raised our concern about the removal of ATMs by 2026 from Clubs as was announced during the election campaign. At that time, we had managed to extend the proposed date for this to commence. However, we could not get agreement for the proposal to be dropped. In recent meetings the Minister agreed

that with the introduction of cashless gaming it was a redundant issue and seemingly walked away from the policy (as she reiterated in a recent Canberra Times article).

As to the other agendas of the Government for this term, we will do our best to work with the government and all members of the Legislative Assembly to achieve a long term and sustainable future for the Club industry in the ACT. Our industry is committed to an evidence based approach to policy and regulation and we retain a strong commitment to gambling harm prevention.

Compulsory Acquisition of Machine Licenses

The current objective to reduce machine numbers to 3500 will expire in June. The Minister still has the longterm objective of attaining 1000 or less machines by 2045. We will try to prevent any further progression of this issue until after the club industry inquiry and the cashless gaming model has been finalized. The proposed framework for compulsory acquisition of machine licenses beyond 3500 will be a matter for significant debate that we will discuss in more detail with our Club Managers subcommittee over the coming months.

Machine reductions whilst they do have a direct impact on revenue for clubs do not necessarily have a major impact on overall gambling harm objectives especially given our cross-border issues with NSW. There is much nuance in this debate and we hope that the club industry inquiry will provide some transparent facts that can help develop better policy and regulation outcomes.

Portable Long Service Leave

The industry faces the introduction of Portable Long Service leave from April 1, this despite efforts for three years opposing this. The administrative burden it places on Clubs is significant as not all employees are covered by the scheme. Roles with hybrid functions may only have part of their function covered, so time recording and task allocation may be significant issues. Some clubs are looking at the role definitions as way making application and transparency clearer. We recently organised an industry wide meeting with Leave ACT (the Agency that manages the scheme) and it was well attended by members with approximately 30 people in the meeting. We are seeking a review of the schemes application within 5 years to ensure that its effective in its objectives.

Tradies Club Re-joins ClubsACT

The Tradies Club, which was last a member of ClubsACT in 2016, recently resolved to re-join ClubsACT. This now means that that ClubsACT represents 99% of Clubs in the ACT and all but a couple of smaller clubs that largely operate with volunteers are members of ClubsACT. We have also recently welcomed back to membership the Hellenic, Burns and Labor Clubs and are thrilled to have all these significant clubs back working collectively with the rest of the industry. The unique contributions and perspectives all our members (big and small) bring to the industry are important. Canberra has a dynamic and mature club industry and as not-for-profit community clubs they play a key role across the Canberra community.

The unification of the industry under one banner is also a significant issue for the political engagement we are currently undertaking and reflects positively on the industry wide support for ClubsACT and the agenda it has been prosecuting on behalf of members.

Kind Regards

Craig Shannon Chief Executive Officer | ClubsACT

(02) 6273 4694 | 0438 4444 67

Press Statement on Portable Long Service Leave

ClubsACT welcomes ACT Government delay on introduction of Portable Long Service Leave

ClubsACT has welcomed the ACT Government delay on the introduction of Portable Long Service Leave announced today. Declaring the announcement as a great relief to the Club Industry, CEO Craig Shannon said, “The Minister has been responsive to the intensive representations we have been making on this issue over the almost three years since it was ﬁrst announced, and we thank him for his announcement this morning.”

“The original intent to expand the scheme to the food service industry accidently scooped up the Club Industry as well, when we had been originally advised it would not impact on our sector. There are signiﬁcant diGiculties in application of the scheme to Licensed clubs given the high casualisation rates and mixed functions of employees. Many employees would have only partial coverage for some hours for some of their wok activity, creating a mess as to application.

We were facing the imposition of the scheme creating an administrative nightmare to clubs, a direct hit to the bottom line in terms of the premiums into the scheme and, for what we are convinced would be of little beneﬁt to employees. Most of those employees covered were never likely to reach the thresholds for the payment given their short-term engagement as casuals in the sector.

Many Clubs have up to 60% of their workforce made up of casuals, many of whom are supplementing their income only for short periods whilst studying or in between commencing their careers in other industries. Our members main objection was that we believed we would have been subsidising the scheme for other sectors, with very few of our employees ever attaining the beneﬁt.” Mr Shannon said.

Mr Shannon concluded that “We appreciate the Ministers response to our concerns on this issue and will look forward to working with him to address our broader concerns on the scheme over the next few months. With Food and beverage sales declining across the ACT this was really the last thing our members needed to contend with at this time or really any time. It’s a relief to see the Minister has listened and acted on this.”

For further comments contact: Craig Shannon 0438444467

Special Guests

Gerard O'Dwyer

John Jarratt

Our special guests on the night will be Aussie actors John Jarratt (Wolf Creek and Wolf Creek 2) and Gerard O'Dwyer (Be My Brother). They will speak about their 2023 film "What About Sal" and inclusion in the film and television industry. "What About Sal" tells the story of a young man with Down syndrome (O'Dwyer) and the search for his father (Jarratt) after his mother is diagnosed with cancer.

There will be plenty of time to ask the actors questions about their work and pose for photos, Inclusion Cocktail in hand of course!!

We have also arranged a special screening of the movie "What About Sal" the following afternoon, Saturday 10 May, at Dendy. All sponsors will receive a free double pass to the screening.

Additional tickets can be purchased for $20 per ticket with all proceeds going to ACT Down Syndrome & Intellectual Disability.

To watch the trailer please click here.

Raise a glass to inclusion and be part of a night that makes a real difference!

Your sponsorship package will include:

Your business name on the event invite and event promotional material.

Have your business collaterals on display during the event (standee, brochures, business cards).

Recognition as a sponsor on the night.

Display your promotional banner at the venue.

5 x complimentary tickets to Inclusion & Cocktails.

2 x complimentary tickets to "What about Sal" screening on May 10th.

SET YOUR OWN PRIZES LOCK COMPETITIONS TO YOUR VENUE TRACK ENTRY FEES PLUS! TAB APP ACCOUNT HOLDERS CAN ADD SELECTIONS TO THEIR BET SLIP MANAGE COMPS IN YOUR VENUE

2025 ClubsACT Clubs & Community Award Submissions

are now open!

Clubs of the ACT support over 1,000 community groups—now it’s time to celebrate those efforts! These awards recognise the outstanding contributions clubs make to the community. Whether it’s through sport, culture, hospitality, sustainability, or social inclusion, we want to hear your club’s story.

Categories for this year’s ClubsACT Clubs & Community Awards are:

Arts & Culture

Honouring clubs that champion arts, language, and culture in the community. This includes supporting artists, celebrating diverse cultures (including Indigenous heritage), and hosting festivals, concerts, performances, literature events, and public programs.

Hospitality Innovation

Recognising clubs that go above and beyond in delivering exceptional customer experiences through creativity and innovation in hospitality. Areas of innovation could include:

> Menu Innovation: Offering unique, seasonal, local and diverse food options for all members

> Service Innovation: Personalised experiences, Staff initiatives, digital services, or tech-driven enhancements.

> Renovation Innovation: Facility upgrades creating modern, safe, inviting spaces for members.

Celebrating Diversity & Social Inclusion

Recognising clubs that foster an inclusive and diverse community by supporting people from all backgrounds, genders, sexual orientations, abilities, and ages.

Education, Learning & Development

Acknowledging clubs that support education and vocational training for members, staff, and the broader community.

Contribution to Grassroots Sports & Inclusion

Celebrating clubs that champion grassroots sports, this award recognises initiatives that promote participation, inclusivity, and accessibility in sport and recreation. Whether through junior development programs,

adaptive sports, or initiatives supporting diversity, this award honours those making sport welcoming for all.

Community Development & Wellbeing

This award recognises clubs that go beyond sports to enhance social connection, mental health, and overall community wellbeing. Whether through mental health programs, social initiatives, or projects that foster a sense of belonging, this category highlights the broader impact clubs have on their communities.

Sustainability & Environment

Celebrating clubs that lead the way in environmental sustainability, community-led green projects, and the circular economy.

Emerging Talent – Employee of the Year

Recognising an outstanding employee who has shown exceptional skill, dedication, and innovation in their role.

Individual Service to the Industry

(Nominated by Member Clubs, final determination by the ClubsACT Board/Management) Honouring the unsung heroes of the club industry—those who have dedicated their careers to supporting clubs and their communities.

READY TO CELEBRATE YOUR CLUB’S SUCCESS? Submit your entry and share your story!

For more information and submission forms please visit clubsact.com.au or contact us at info@clubsact.com.au

ClubsACT Micro-Conference: Safeguarding the Present,

Securing the Future

ClubsACT recently hosted a highly successful Micro-Conference at Eastlake Football Club, bringing together industry leaders, corporate partners, and community stakeholders to explore the critical issues shaping the security and sustainability of our sector.

Attendees had the opportunity to hear from an outstanding lineup of expert speakers, each offering valuable insights into key challenges and future opportunities:

NIGEL PHAIR – Renowned Technologist, Advisor, Academic, Author, and Company Director, providing expertise on cybersecurity and digital transformation.

MICHAEL PHELAN – Strategic Advisor and Former Senior Law Enforcement Official, delivering deep insights into crime prevention and regulatory challenges.

SCOTT LEE – Chief Police Officer of ACT Policing, offering a frontline perspective on community safety and law enforcement strategies.

DANIEL VAGULANS – Principal Consultant at Excelium, sharing knowledge on business resilience, risk management, and industry best practices.

This event reinforced the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing in ensuring the long-term viability of clubs and community organisations. Attendees engaged in thought-provoking discussions and gained practical insights to enhance their operational resilience.

Looking Ahead: Save the Date!

ClubsACT is pleased to announce our next Micro-Conference, set for Thursday, May 1st, at Ainslie Football Club. Stay tuned for more details and be sure to mark your calendars for another insightful and engaging industry event! For more information, contact ClubsACT or visit

CLUBSACT MICRO CONFERENCE: SAFEGUARDING THE PRESENT, SECURING THE FUTURE

DATE: THURSDAY 27TH FEBRUARY 2025

TIME: 4:30PM FOLLOWED BY NETWORKING DRINKS & NIBBLES

VENUE: EASTLAKE FOOTBALL CLUB, 3 OXLEY STREET, GRIFFITH

GUEST SPEAKER:

SCOTT LEE APM DEPUTY COMMISSIONER CHIEF POLICE OFFICER, ACT POLICING

Deputy Commissioner Scott Lee is the Chief Police O cer for the ACT, with a distinguished career in the Australian Federal Police. Scott has led major national and international operations against terrorism, organized crime, money laundering, and human tra cking. He played key roles in the Bali bombings response, the Australian Embassy attack investigation in Jakarta, and numerous counter-terrorism and cybercrime

A strong advocate for diversity, Scott established the AFP’s First Nations Unit and global Women in Counter Terrorism program, achieving gender balance in leadership.

In 2023, Scott commenced as Assistant Commissioner Cyber Command, working together with our Australian and global partners to protect the people of Australia, their information, identities and data. In March 2024 Scott was promoted to Deputy Commissioner, and became the Chief Police O cer for the ACT. Throughout his career Scott continues to serve the community to maintain the safety of the public.

GUEST SPEAKER:

DANIEL VAGULANS PRINCIPAL CONSULTANT EXCELIUM

Daniel Vagulans is a cybersecurity professional with extensive experience in protecting businesses against evolving cyber threats. He holds multiple cybersecurity certiﬁcations and a master’s degree in cybersecurity, specialising in security assessments, cyber maturity uplift activities, and disaster recovery strategies.

Daniel works closely with local clubs in the ACT, providing practical guidance on improving security postures and mitigating risks. Through Excelium’s Cyber Security Coordination Centre (CSCC), he leads initiatives focused on strengthening cyber defences, implementing e ective security controls, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. His expertise helps organisations navigate complex cybersecurity challenges and build resilience against emerging threats.

TURN UP THE HEAT

IGT’s red hot series - Fire Dragon® - introduces an innovative take on Hold ‘N’ Spin via a new mechanic that ﬁres up gameplay opportunities and entertainment!

• New centre reel focus provides the chance for increased wins

• The ‘Fire Frame’ enhances base gameplay, free games and the Hold ‘N’ Spin Feature

• Mega Jackpot Feature o ers bonus prizes and the opportunity to win the MEGA Jackpot

Available on IGT’s PeakDual27™ cabinet as a Link and SAP*, the Fire Dragon® series includes four game titles - Moon Blossom®, Jade Kingdom®, Samurai Sunset® and Golden Panda™.

Are you ready to turn up the heat? Call IGT to ﬁnd out more on (02) 9812 2300 or visit igt.com.au

2024 Clubs Data Breach Cyber Crime in Australia

Venues

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Immersive venues on the rise in 2025

Cutting-edge venues are crafting immersive worlds around their customers. From aweinspiring video walls to indulgent luxury. How are these trends influencing venue design?

Paynter Dixon, the industry leader in delivering awardwinning hospitality facilities, is bringing these principles to life.

Sensory immersion

Enter a venue where video walls curve through space, lighting instinctively changes mood with movement, and ceilings transform into starlit skies This is the power of digital signage, dynamic LED lighting and projection mapping.

West Tamworth League Club is a new breed of immersive venue engaging customers on arrival. Stage 1 of the major refurbishment showcases a new port cochere and foyer, incorporating soon to be completed garden walls, water features, and upgraded driveway.

The foyer features a video wall – among the largest in Australia – spanning 15 metres in length and 3 metres in height. A ‘backdrop’ to the main entrance, this centrepiece follows the wall contours, curving into the main corridor.

“We look at how the ‘wow’ factor – which is established

on arrival – will flow through the venue,” says Andrew Neagle, Strategic Development Lead – Hospitality.

Strategically placed recessed ceiling domes throughout the main gaming room mimic skylights, utilising a dynamic yet subtle LED lighting solution to evoke various times of day.

The premium experience

“Regardless of size, if your venue has a premium brand and offering within the local market, you will attract a premium customer with a premium spend,” says Andrew.

Nestled in the Sydney CBD and undergoing a major refurbishment, Club York is embracing the cosmopolitan ethos.

Serving as a focal point, the new central bar and lounge feature marble surfaces, brass fittings, wood panelling and prominent fluted chandelier lighting.

Voice your ideas. Our Hospitality Team is here to listen. Contact Andrew Neagle today: andrew.neagle@ paynterdixon.com.au

CARLTON DRY 3.5% CLAIMS TOP SPOT AS AUSTRALIA’S BEST-SELLING NEW BEER

Carlton Dry is celebrating a major milestone with its latest beer, Carlton Dry 3.5%, claiming the title as the #1 selling new beer in the nation*. Since its launch earlier this year, Carlton Dry 3.5% has won over beer-lovers, who appreciate the same refreshingly crisp taste of Carlton Dry but with less alcohol.

Carlton Dry 3.5% was launched in March in a 30-block can format, followed by 24-pack stubbies in September. It offers a slightly fruity character, with soft bitterness and a light palate, delivering an easy-drinking beer with a dry finish.

Ben Eyles, Head of Beer at Carlton & United Breweries, said: “We’re thrilled to see how quickly Australians have embraced Carlton Dry 3.5%. This success highlights the growing demand for beer that fits a variety of occasions. We knew we had something special with this beer, and seeing it become the #1 selling new beer in the country is incredibly rewarding.”

With 40% fewer carbs than Carlton Mid and fewer than 100 calories per serve, Carlton Dry 3.5% meets the evolving preferences of beer lovers seeking to moderate their alcohol consumption while still enjoying a greattasting beer. As Australians continue to embrace a more balanced lifestyle, mid-strength beers are more popular than ever.

“At Asahi Beverages, we’re committed to offering consumers more choices to moderate their alcohol consumption. More than 30% of our beer sales come from no, low, and mid-strength beers, with our Great Northern Super Crisp the biggest selling Australian beer. Carlton Dry 3.5% is a terrific addition to that portfolio.” Eyles said.