The implementation of facial recognition technology to support self-exclusion programs in South Australia

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Author(s): Selwyn, Neil ; Smith, Gavin ; Andrejevic, Mark ; Gu, Xin ; O’Neill, Chris

Journal: Journal of Gambling Studies

Year Published: 2024

Date Added: August 03, 2024

In 2022, the South Australian (SA) government enacted legislation requiring any venue with 30 or more gaming machines to install facial recognition technology (FRT) for identifying barred patrons. This study examined the origin of the FRT legislation in SA, including how the initial idea was framed and who was involved in promoting it. This study further discussed how FRT was implemented and used in practice for supporting self-exclusion programs, as well as the future of FRT. The researchers used multiple data sources, including documents, interviews, and field observations. Overall, the results show how FRT does not better address the core issues underpinning problem gambling. In addition, FRT does not substantially improve conditions that support people with problem gambling. There are inconsistencies with how the technology is applied, as well as inefficiencies and uncertainties.

Citation: Selwyn, N., Smith, G., Andrejevic, M., Gu, X., & O’Neill, C. (2024). Facing up to problem gambling: Tracing the emergence of facial recognition technology as a means of enforcing voluntary exclusion. Journal of Gambling Studies. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10899-024-10308-4

Article DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10899-024-10308-4

Keywords: breach detection ; Indigenous peoples ; minorities ; problem gambling ; self-exclusion ; self-exclusion breach ; women

Topics: Aboriginal and First Nations ; Cultural Factors ; Information for Operators ; Priority Populations

Conceptual Framework Factors: Cultural - Indigenous Groups ; Environment - Responsible Gambling ; Exposure - Accessibility ; Gambling Exposure ; Gambling Resources ; Resources - Interventions

Study Design: Mixed Methods

Geographic Coverage: Australia

Sampling Procedure: The researchers used multiple data sources, including documents such as institutional statements; interviews with people who self-excluded; published interviews with government, regulator, and gambling industry spokespersons; and observations at six venues and interviews with venue staff and managers.

Study Funding:

Open access funding was enabled and organized by CAUL and its Member Institutions. The fieldwork was undertaken as part of an Australian Research Council funded ‘Discovery’ project.