Submissions close 17 August; Community returns at stake
The Government is considering legislation to license up to 15 online casino operators in New Zealand. As drafted, the Bill does not require licensed online casinos to return funds to the not-for-profit sector.
Community organisations across sport, arts, culture, youth, disability, and social services currently rely on grant funding that helps keep fees affordable, programmes running, and people connected.
What’s the risk?
If online gambling shifts to operators with no obligation to return funds to the community, the total grant pool could shrink, making it harder for local initiatives to survive. This affects participation, inclusion, and wellbeing nationwide.
What many submitters are asking for
- A mandated minimum 40% of gross proceeds returned to authorised community purposes via audited, transparent grants
- At least five licences for not-for-profit operators to embed community benefit
- Strong harm-minimisation and data transparency requirements, at least on par with existing Class 4 settings
- A geographic return principle, so communities see a fair portion of returns from the spend that occurs there
How to make a submission (step-by-step)
- Go to the NZ Parliament submissions page
- Search for “Online Casino Gambling Bill” and click Make a submission
- Write your view in your own words (plain language is fine). You can include points like:
- “I support a minimum 40% community return from licensed online casinos.”
- “Reserve at least five licences for not-for-profit entities.”
- “Ensure strong harm-minimisation, independent audits, and public reporting.”
- “Adopt a geographic return approach so local communities benefit.”
- Add any examples of how grants have helped your club, kaupapa, or service.
- Submit before 11:59pm, 17 August.
Who can submit?
Anyone—individuals, clubs, charities, and businesses. Submissions can be brief and in your own words.
Want to help spread the word?
Share this article and remind friends, whānau, and teammates to submit before 17 August.
