Len Reynolds Trust Calls for Stronger Community Protections in Online Gambling Regulation
On 14 August, the Len Reynolds Trust made a submission to Parliament on the Online Casino Gambling Regulation Bill.
While we welcome overdue regulation of online casino gambling, we share the concerns raised by Philanthropy New Zealand about the Bill’s failure to require licensed operators to return a share of profits to the community.
This omission risks stripping tens of millions of dollars from grassroots sport, community groups, and harm-prevention services - funding that is already under enormous pressure due to government service cuts, economic hardship, and rising community needs.
As a philanthropic trust based in the Waikato, we work closely with Māori and rural communities, supporting initiatives that reduce harm, build capability, and create opportunities for whānau and tamariki. We see first-hand the vital role that community funding plays in ensuring these organisations can survive and thrive.
In our submission, we called for:
A ring-fenced share of online gambling profits to be returned to community initiatives, aligned with obligations already placed on casinos and other gambling operators.
Strong harm-minimisation measures, including deposit limits, national self-exclusion, and bans on gambling with borrowed money.
Clear restrictions on advertising to protect children and vulnerable communities.
Commitments to equity and Te Tiriti o Waitangi, including funding kaupapa Māori and Pasifika-led harm prevention services.
Licences to operate are a privilege, not a right. Regulation must not come at the expense of the communities it should serve.
Read our full submission - click on the link below.