Gaming Expo Organisers Call for Balance in Industry

Millions of dollars will be injected into the local economy next week as more than 10,000 gaming and hospitality representatives from all over the world converge on Sydney to attend the 2005 Australasian Gaming Expo.

The 15th annual Expo hosted by the Australasian Gaming Machine Manufacturers Association (AGMMA) will be held at the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre on August 21-23.

AGMMA Executive Officer Ross Ferrar said the future of the gaming industry was dependent on balance, education and responsibility.

"The Expo is an opportunity for industry, Government and media to come together under one roof and focus on the current climate and the way forward for the industry, both on a local and global scale," Mr Ferrar said.

"It is imperative that all parties work together and take responsibility for what needs to be done to ensure the gaming industry heads in the right direction."

Mr Ferrar said the first Australasian Gaming Expo was held in 1990 when the state of gaming was very different to the heavily regulated industry at present.

"When the gaming industry entered the Australian market it was generally well received by Governments and the public alike," Mr Ferrar said.

"There was very little regulation at that stage. Over the years it became clear that some changes needed to be made."

Mr Ferrar said what began as sensible legislation to stabilise the industry had now become heavy regulation putting pressure on Australian companies.

"What we need now is balance between those two extremes, and events like the Australasian Gaming Expo encourage all stakeholders to work towards that balance," Mr Ferrar said.

The Conference will include addresses by local and international experts on the gaming and hospitality industry.

There will be 225 exhibits on display showcasing the latest in gaming and hospitality technology and equipment.