Most of you may have been aware of the up and coming changes with the increase to the number of machines permitted by Hotels. The recent change to the Gaming Regulation 2002 now enables Hotels to apply for the maximum number of machines which has now increased from 40 to 45.

Whilst applications are now approved for processing, Hotels applying for the maximum machines will enter the next tender with the expectation of the additional machines taking place from the 1^st of July.

Coinciding with the increase of machines Clubs can expect to pay a little less tax with the maximum threshold reducing from 35.91% to 35% which is also the case for Hotels, a further change sees the amendment of Section 53 of the Gaming Regulation where the Health Services Levy will also change. Currently the first $100,000 metered win is tax free and with the changes there will be no tax applicable for the first $140,000, this Health Services Levy is applicable to Hotels. The changes to the tax rates is expected from the 1^st July 2012.