New Zealand commits $81 million to minimise gambling harm
New Zealand’s gambling harm strategy is updated every three years, as per a requirement within New Zealand’s 2003 Gambling Act.
Doocey said the funding will help improve access to support for players experiencing harm. It will also strengthen prevention and early intervention and reduce the impact of harm across the market.
Legal iGaming on the horizon in New Zealand
New Zealand is currently building out a regulatory framework for a legal iGaming market, to launch in 2026.
In August, a local lawyer told iGB the government expects the licensed iGaming market to be worth NZ$500m (US$300.8m) once it launches.
A number of leading global brands have expressed interest in gaining a local licence for the online market, including 888, Betway and Bet365.
In a letter to government dated July 2024, TAB New Zealand, the market’s online betting monopoly, estimated Jackpotcitycasino held the largest share (15%) of the iGaming grey market in 2023. Next was Casumo with 9%, Spincasino with 7%, LeoVegas with 5%, Guts with 4%, SkyCityCasino with 4% and Royalvegascasino holding a similar 4% share.
Land-based and online operators to provide funding
The government’s latest strategy was developed through a two-stage consultation process and the minister said it strongly reflects the voices of people with lived experience.
Services will be funded through the new Problem Gambling Levy Regulations, paid for by non-casino gaming machine operators, casinos, TAB and lottery monopoly Lotto NZ. The department is also considering how licensed online casino operators will contribute to the strategy.
As part of the process, Doocey said 18 new clinical internship positions would be established. This will help to improve players’ access to support.
“It is expected these interns will be supported to develop gambling harm expertise by working closely with a supervisor in a clinical setting. This approach is necessary to bridge the gap between education and work. It will give interns the practical experience needed to help people affected by gambling harm,” Doocey said.
“The strategy focuses on delivering timely, effective support for individuals, families and communities affected by gambling harm. Key areas of investment include increasing access to treatment and support, improving prevention and early intervention initiatives and improving the effectiveness of support for those experiencing gambling harm,” Doocey concluded.