The NSW Independent Liquor & Gaming Authority (ILGA) is travelling to Griffith this week to gain a stronger understanding of issues in the Riverina as part of its Regional Engagement Strategy.
This follows a successful trip to Newcastle in November.
ILGA chairperson Caroline Lamb said these visits were essential to maintain ties with stakeholders in regional areas and to ensure ILGA continued to make decisions relevant to the needs and aspirations of local communities.
“It’s important for ILGA to stay up-to-date with issues impacting regional communities and there’s no better way to do this than by meeting people face-to-face,” Ms Lamb said.
“The deeper the insights we have into each area’s needs, the more informed and relevant ILGA’s regulatory decision-making is.
“We are looking forward to meeting community and industry representatives in Griffith. Our visit reflects ILGA’s aim to engage with different stakeholders and communities across NSW.”
ILGA board members and staff will meet key stakeholders and community groups including:
- Griffith City Council
- Griffith Aboriginal Medical Service
- Griffith Liquor Accord
- Leeton Liquor Accord
- NSW Police – Murrumbidgee Police District
- ClubsNSW
- Australian Hotels Association NSW
- Murrumbidgee Local Health District
- GambleAware – Uniting Victas
- Griffith Community Drug Action Team
“We will listen to a diverse range of people from the community to understand the impact of the liquor and gaming industries on health, crime and businesses in the Riverina,” Ms Lamb said.
“By gaining an increased awareness of what matters to locals, we can be assured future decisions which impact the area will be balanced, fair and relevant to the community’s needs and expectations.
“Speaking to our stakeholders in Griffith will help improve ILGA’s appreciation of local issues to ensure ILGA can continue making decisions for the region in the public interest.”
ILGA is a statutory decision-maker responsible for liquor, registered club, music festival and gaming machine regulatory functions including determining licensing and disciplinary matters under the gaming and liquor legislation.
For more information about ILGA, visit: www.liquorandgaming.nsw.gov.au/independent-liquor-and-gaming-authority