Newcastle City Council has voted to support stronger gambling harm reduction measures after new figures showed that annual poker machine losses in the city are expected to exceed A$250 million this year. The decision reflects growing concern among councillors about the financial and social impacts of gambling on individuals, families and the wider community. During a recent council meeting, elected representatives unanimously supported a motion endorsing initiatives aimed at reducing gambling-related harm.

The motion also expressed support for Wesley Mission's "Put Pokies in Their Place" campaign, which advocates for reforms designed to make gambling safer and provide better protection for vulnerable people. Council members said problem gambling can contribute to financial hardship, relationship difficulties, mental health issues and increased demand for community support services. They believe stronger safeguards are needed to minimise these impacts while ensuring appropriate consumer protections are in place for people who choose to gamble.

As part of the resolution, Newcastle City Council will write to the New South Wales Premier and the Minister for Gaming and Racing, urging the state government to consider reforms such as mandatory cashless gaming technology with harm-minimisation features, a statewide self-exclusion register, late-night shutdown periods for poker machines and improved transparency around gambling activity. These measures are intended to reduce excessive gambling while maintaining lawful gaming operations. Councillors acknowledged that local governments have limited authority over gambling regulation because licensing and gaming laws are administered by the NSW Government.

However, they said councils still have an important role in advocating for policies that improve public health and community wellbeing. The council also plans to investigate developing its own Gambling Harm Reduction Policy. The proposed policy would explore practical ways to support clubs and hotels that wish to diversify their income sources and reduce reliance on poker machine revenue over time.

Council representatives believe this approach could strengthen local community organisations while encouraging more sustainable business models. Community organisations welcomed the council's decision, saying the growing level of gambling losses demonstrates the need for meaningful reform. They argue that reducing gambling harm requires cooperation between governments, support services, industry and local communities to ensure effective long-term outcomes.

Officials emphasised that the initiative is not intended to prohibit gambling. Instead, its focus is on introducing practical measures that help people gamble more safely while providing stronger support for those experiencing gambling-related difficulties. The discussion comes as gambling losses across New South Wales continue to attract public attention, with advocates calling for additional safeguards to address financial hardship and social impacts.

Newcastle's decision adds to broader conversations taking place across the state regarding the future regulation of poker machines and responsible gambling policies. Council representatives said protecting community wellbeing remains a priority and expressed hope that the NSW Government will consider the recommendations as part of future gambling reform. They believe stronger harm-minimisation measures can help reduce the impact of problem gambling while supporting healthier and more resilient communities across Newcastle.