TAFE has announced it is providing the NSW government’s Advanced Responsible Conduct of Gambling short course, to lift the abilities of professionals in gaming rooms, through knowledge, practical skills and confidence.
The government stipulates that the ARCG training reflects the increased risk of gambling harm that gaming machines represent, and the topic has received considerable attention since being mandated by the Minister for Gaming, David Harris.
Liquor & Gaming NSW requested that TAFE NSW provide the course to ensure it was rolled out across the whole state, as it was a requirement that the training could be accessed by people statewide.
TAFE has the facilities to meet the mandate, quickly, and has responded, offering over 80 courses across 27 locations.
ARCG takes six hours, and is being delivered through both face-to-face training and facilitated online classes. Operators can also submit their delivery and location preferences through an Expression of Interest form, and TAFE NSW will schedule training.
The course fee is $330 (no GST).
According to L&G, the course will assist staff to recognise the signs of concerning gambling behaviour and offer support to reduce gambling harm, arming recipients through topics including:
- Anticipating and managing high-intensity situations using advanced interpersonal skills
- Managing high-intensity situations involving distressed patrons
- Leading a culture of proactive gambling harm minimisation
- Responsible conduct of gambling in practice
The Minns government is proposing to mandate the training for Responsible Gambling Officers (RGO) and other senior roles in hotels and clubs that operate gaming machines.
It is being recommended for roles with gambling-related harm minimisation responsibilities, such as RGOs, floor managers, supervisors, licensees and club secretaries.
A staged implementation aims to ensure harm minimisation benefits are realised for the community, while allowing venues, management and training providers time to adjust to the requirements.
The first deadline is 30 June 2024.
For further information contact 131 601 or visit the L&G website.