The proposed Online Casino Gambling Bill has sparked concern across New Zealand’s sporting sector, and Netball is no exception. With over 50 sporting organisations united in opposition  

• The bill threatens to dismantle a vital funding stream that grassroots sport depends on. 

• Currently, gaming machine grants contribute over NZ$170 million annually to amateur sport.  

• Netball clubs rely on this support for essentials like uniforms, coaching, and facility access. Yet, the new bill, while regulating offshore gambling, fails to require licensed online operators to return any funding to the community.  

This shift poses three major risks: 

1. Declining Income: With sponsorships shrinking and local government support under pressure, losing gaming grants would severely limit our ability to serve players and volunteers.  

1. Digital Disruption: Sport is already adapting to the digital age. Online gambling must not bypass obligations that traditional operators uphold.  

1. Public Health Priority: Netball fosters physical activity, mental wellbeing, and youth engagement. It’s a cornerstone of community health, deserving of reinvestment from gambling revenues.  

For anyone that would like to support, we encourage you to engage with your local MP’s and Media on this topic.  The submissions to the select committee are now closed but we can still raise awareness around the impact of these changes on our communities. 

Online Casino Gambling Bill  - link here for the article 

Article added: Monday 01 September 2025