NSW government accused of delaying report on ClubGRANTS scheme for gaming machines

The release of review of the controversial tax rebate programme tied to gaming machine profits has reportedly been delayed.

Australia.- The government of New South Wales (NSW) is facing criticism for allegedly delaying the publication of a review of the state’s controversial ClubGRANTS scheme.

The review, conducted by the regulator Liquor & Gaming NSW, examined the operation of the ClubGRANTS programme, which allows clubs to receive tax rebates on gaming machine revenue when they donate funds to community projects and charities. ABC News says the final report has been sitting with the state government since January 2025 and has yet to be made public despite repeated requests from journalists and stakeholders.

The ClubGRANTS scheme is estimated to be worth around AU$1.5bn (US$990m). Clubs reportedly donated AU$127m (US$84m) to more than 7,600 charities and community groups in the year to August 2025. However, critics say the lack of transparency surrounding the unreleased report has left community groups and industry stakeholders uncertain about possible reforms to the scheme.

Some opposition figures have accused the government of using “stalling tactics,” arguing that organisations relying on the grants remain in a holding pattern while awaiting clarity on the programme’s future.

The NSW government has insisted that the report will be released “in due course”. It reiterated its commitment to ensuring the scheme remains transparent and effective in supporting community organisations across the state.

The programme has long been debated, with supporters highlighting its funding of local initiatives, while critics argue that the system allows clubs to exercise significant influence over how funds generated from gambling activity are distributed. There are roughly 65,000 slot machines across New South Wales, generating around AU$5bn (US$3.3bn) in net profit annually and contributing more than AU$1bn (US$660m) in annual tax revenue to the state government.

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The release of review of the controversial tax rebate programme tied to gaming machine profits has reportedly been delayed. Australia.- The government of New South Wales (NSW) is facing criticism for allegedly delaying the publication of a review of the state’s controversial ClubGRANTS scheme. The review, conducted by the regulator Liquor & Gaming NSW, examined…