The push for cashless gaming options for pokies or slot machines in Sydney, Australia is set to hit a snag. Lobby groups for the hotels and clubs association have voiced strong opposition to the ideas, with the costs set to inhibit the growth of new business across New South Wales (NSW) pubs and clubs. Opposition groups are arguing that the structure of the new proposal will increase the costs to small and medium-sized operators.

The proposed changes to state laws would force gamblers to register and pre-load money onto the gaming card. The system would be linked to the state-run self-exclusion database for problem gambling.

ClubsNSW have called the proposal an “expensive solution” being forced onto clubs. ClubsNSW chief executive Josh Landis expressed his doubts to the media. “The industry simply isn’t going to accept blindly any idea that lacks detail about cost impact,” he said.

Former NSW politician Michael Daley remained critical of the proposed scheme. “Some of these measures could devastate pubs and clubs at a time when their survival is under threat and protecting jobs is paramount.”