Alternative gaming machine payment methods in Australia: current knowledge and future implications

This paper considers the advantages and disadvantages of cashless gambling technologies in the Australian gaming machine industry from supply and demand side perspectives. Exploratory interviews with key industry stakeholders formed the basis of the first stage of data collection. Analysis of these data led to the development of questionnaire items based on innovation models, which were administered to patrons (n = 134) of two large gambling venues where card based gambling had recently become available. The supply side advantages of cashless technologies were strongly articulated, and include reduced venue overheads and operating costs. Regulators are primarily interested in the features that may encourage responsible gambling. All consumers acknowledge that the card is easy to use and convenient, although card and system reliability were strong concerns for non-users. These consumer disadvantages are offset where the venue and its management regime are positively perceived.