The Gaming Venue Alliance in the Australian Capital Territory (ClubsACT) proposes a test of facial identification software to assist individuals struggling with gambling addiction in adhering to their self-ban agreements.
This program, created by a New Zealand firm named COMS Systems Limited, would be initially implemented in a limited number of locations. Should an individual registered with the self-exclusion program enter a zone containing slot machines or other forms of wagering, personnel would receive a notification. This technology is already operational in select bars and clubs in South Australia and 170 establishments throughout New Zealand.
ClubsACT Chief Executive Officer, Craig Shannon, clarified that the objective is to furnish an additional level of assistance for those who have opted for self-exclusion. Should they access a gaming area, the system would identify them, but its primary purpose is to bolster their personal dedication to self-exclusion.
Nevertheless, the ACT Attorney-General, Shane Rattenbury, has voiced apprehensions regarding potential complications such as personal data protection and patron agreement. He remains unconvinced that this constitutes the optimal course of action and recommends that clubs engage in discussions with the gaming and racing regulatory body regarding the specifics. They must contemplate the regulations pertaining to confidentiality and constraints, and most crucially, whether their patrons even desire this or if alternative, more impactful methods exist to mitigate gambling-related harm.
Shannon stated that the framework has been implemented in multiple venues but is not currently active. The chief law officer for the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) is presently anticipating a statement from the Justice and Community Safety Directorate regarding the wider consequences of facial identification technology. The ACT Clubs Association suggested that if the initiative receives authorization, the trial could be operational within a matter of weeks.