The State Government has released its policy for gaming post the expiry of a monopoly deal with Federal Group in 2023.

The contentious issue was a key policy differential between Liberal and Labor at the last election – with Labor recently dumping its policy to ban machines from pubs and clubs.

Treasurer Peter Gutwein said its new policy would facilitate a sustainable industry, supports freedom of choice, minimises harm and backs the future of jobs in the industry.

“The Government has recently written to Federal Group to advise them of our intention to end the current exclusivity arrangements through the legislation that will be tabled early next year to give effect to our policy and put in place a new framework from 30 June 2023,” Mr Gutwein said.

“By ending the current arrangements through legislation, rather than by notice under the Deed, we will ensure that the industry has the certainty to continue to invest and employ until the new gaming framework is in place for the industry post 2023.”

A Future Gaming project team was established last year and is completing a financial analysis of the current industry including the impact of various tax and licence settings on industry participants.

“This work is complex and ongoing,” Mr Gutwein said.

“The Government will shortly be engaging with relevant stakeholders as we deliver our commitment.”