The Norwegian Gambling Authority, the New South Wales Independent Casino Commission (Australia) and Queensland's Office of Liquor and Gaming (Australia) are the winners of IAGR's annual awards programme, the International Regulatory Awards.
The winners were announced last night at a gala dinner in Gaborone, Botswana, during the IAGR annual conference.
The awards aim to recognize outstanding regulators who help move the industry forward. The awards were judged by a committee made up of IAGR directors and independent stakeholders.
The Norwegian Gambling Authority (NGA) has been awarded the 2023 Regulatory Excellence Award for its outstanding efforts in reducing problem gambling in Norway. With a 50% reduction in individuals with gambling problems since 2019, the NGA's multi-faceted approach includes stringent measures against illegal operators and meticulous oversight of legal operators.
The vice-president of the IAGR and judge of the award, Caroline Kongwa, said the NGA's comprehensive strategy and measurable impact make it a model of excellence for regulators.
“Their collaborative approach with industry stakeholders demonstrates a commitment to not only enforcing regulations, but also sharing knowledge for the betterment of the global gaming community,” Kongwa said.
The Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation (OLGR) in Queensland, Australia, won the 2023 Best Regulatory Campaign award for its campaign to address gambling-related harms in Australia's First Nations communities.
Developed in partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, the campaign has succeeded in raising awareness and reducing the stigma of the harms of gambling.
“The campaign stood out for its co-design process, which ensured cultural sensitivity and effectiveness – explained Kongwa -. It's not just about achieving goals, it's about meaningful commitment and lasting impact. OLGR has set a new benchmark for culturally nuanced campaigns.”
The NSW Independent Casino Commission (NICC) has won the 2023 Regulatory Innovation Award for its innovative approach to casino regulation in New South Wales, Australia.
Established in response to evolving challenges in the casino industry, the NICC's submission has demonstrated agility and effectiveness in its regulatory practices.
“The NICC's rapid response to emerging challenges and focus on minimizing harm demonstrates that regulators can be powerful and agile, adapting quickly to protect both industry and the public,” Kongwa said. On behalf of the IAGR, I would like to congratulate the three award winners and thank everyone who submitted a nomination. Your efforts have helped shine a light on individuals and teams around the world who work tirelessly to set new regulatory standards in the ever-evolving gambling landscape.”
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