In an effort to ensure that the social impact of increased gaming machines is balanced with positive outcomes for local communities, the New South Wales (NSW) Government offers funding through the Community Benefit Payment Scheme. This scheme directs funds to local charitable organisations and non-profits, helping communities offset the potential negative effects of gambling while supporting a range of vital social services.
What is the Community Benefit Payment Scheme?
The Community Benefit Payment Scheme aims to channel funds generated by the increase in gaming machines to the local areas impacted by these changes. The funds are designed to directly benefit the communities in the areas where the gaming machines are being added, with a focus on community wellbeing and harm minimisation.
Community benefit payments are typically allocated to not-for-profit organisations that provide services in sectors such as:
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Health and mental health services
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Youth support and housing
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Domestic and family violence services
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Social or financial disadvantage programs
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Support for Aboriginal or culturally and linguistically diverse communities
Importantly, organisations that receive funding are required to incorporate gambling harm minimisation strategies into their operations, helping to mitigate the risks associated with problem gambling in the local community.
How Does the Funding Work?
The funding process begins when a venue applies to Liquor & Gaming NSW to increase the number of gaming machines on its premises. This application often requires the completion of a Local Impact Assessment, which evaluates the potential impact of the increased machines on the local area.
Once the Independent Liquor and Gaming Authority (ILGA) reviews and approves the application, the venue is obligated to make community benefit payments to the Responsible Gambling Fund. These payments are then distributed to local organisations that work to improve the social wellbeing of the community.
Distribution of Funding
Funds from the Responsible Gambling Fund are distributed through a closed grant process managed by the Office of Responsible Gambling. This process begins when the Office identifies eligible organisations within the local area and invites them to apply for funding.
A Community Contribution Panel plays a key role in assessing the applications. This panel includes:
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A local community representative (typically from local government or health)
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A representative from the local GambleAware service
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An RGF Trustee
The panel reviews the applications, evaluating the potential benefit to the local community, the feasibility of the proposed projects, and the alignment with NSW Government policies. Following the panel’s assessment, a recommendation is made to the Deputy Secretary of Hospitality and Racing for final approval.
Eligibility and Application Process
To apply for funding through the Community Benefit Payment Scheme, organisations must meet specific eligibility criteria:
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The organisation must be a not-for-profit entity, a social-purpose organisation, or a government agency with an ABN.
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The proposed project must directly benefit communities in the target Local Government Area (LGA).
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The funding request must fall within the available range specified for each grant opportunity.
Additionally, applications are assessed based on several factors, including:
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The deliverability of the project within the proposed timeframe and budget.
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The capacity and expertise of the applicant to carry out the project.
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The community benefit the proposal will bring to the target LGA.
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The value for money the proposal represents.
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Alignment with broader NSW Government policy objectives.
How to Register Your Interest
If your organisation meets the eligibility criteria and would like to be considered for funding opportunities in your local area, you can register your interest. This ensures that, when funding becomes available, your organisation will be notified and can apply for the grants.
In Conclusion
The Community Benefit Payment Scheme is an important initiative that helps to mitigate the potential harms of increased gaming machines in local communities by supporting projects that improve social wellbeing. Through funding for local charities and non-profits, the scheme ensures that the benefits of gaming-related payments are shared with the communities that need them most.
By supporting projects in health, social services, and gambling harm minimisation, the NSW Government is taking proactive steps to create a safer, healthier, and more resilient community for all residents. If you're involved in a community-focused organisation, this funding could be an opportunity to make a lasting impact where it's needed most.
For more information or to apply, visit the official NSW Government website using the link below and follow the steps to register your interest in the scheme.
