The NSW Independent Liquor & Gaming Authority (ILGA) is travelling to Orange this week to gain a stronger understanding of issues in the Central Tablelands and Central West as part of its Regional Engagement Strategy.
This follows a successful visit to Griffith in March.
ILGA chairperson Caroline Lamb said these visits were essential to maintain ties with stakeholders in regional areas and to ensure ILGA continues to make decisions relevant to the needs and expectations 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 Orange. 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:
- Orange City Council
- Western NSW Local Health District
- Orange Aboriginal Medical Service
- NSW Police – Central West Police District
- Lifeline Central West
- Wesley Mission
- GambleAware helpline team
- Orange Liquor Accord
- ClubsNSW member clubs
- Australian Hotels Association NSW and member hotels
“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 Central Tablelands and Central West,” 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 and fair.
“Speaking to our stakeholders in Orange 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 an independent statutory decision-maker responsible for liquor, gaming machine, registered club, music festival and other regulatory functions.
For more information about ILGA, visit: ilga.nsw.gov.au/about-us