The Canberra Clubs Association (ClubsACT) has put forward a suggestion to test facial recognition software in a selection of its establishments. This system, intended to assist individuals struggling with gambling addiction, would enable patrons to willingly enroll and be identified to personnel upon entering gaming zones.
Created by COMS Systems Limited, a company based in New Zealand, this technology is already operational in more than 170 locations across New Zealand and a number of pubs and clubs in South Australia. Should a registered individual access a designated space, such as a room with slot machines, an alert is sent to staff members.
ClubsACT Chief Executive Officer, Craig Shannon, stressed that the system’s objective is to bolster self-imposed exclusion, stating, “It essentially reinforces their personal decision to self-exclude.” He elaborated that the system would capture images of individuals who have opted for self-exclusion if they venture into gambling areas.
Nevertheless, Attorney-General Shane Rattenbury voiced apprehensions regarding data privacy, informed agreement, and the overall efficacy of this method. He advised clubs to engage in discussions with the gambling regulatory body and explore alternative harm reduction tactics.
Shannon conveyed that the face identification technology has been implemented in multiple venues but remains inactive at present. They are awaiting a report from the ACT Department of Justice and Community Safety to the Attorney General concerning the wider deployment of this technology. The venues anticipate commencing trial runs in the coming weeks, contingent upon receiving approval.