The Australian Poker League (APL) is facing a temporary suspension of its operations in venues across the state of Tasmania, according to local media, in a move enforced by the Tasmanian Liquor and Gaming Commission (TLGC). The league, which organizes poker games nationwide at prominent locations including Wrest Point Casino and several pubs and clubs, confirmed the suspension on its Facebook page.
The league in a statement said that the suspension was because of TLGC’s advice that it must change its current format. The league further noted that it has been holding talks with the commission over the past few months, and expressed the intention to assess the situation and respond accordingly. The league said the suspension is a “temporary pause” and said that it anticipated returning soon.
Treasurer Michael Ferguson said that the TLGC had advised poker tournament operators on how to lawfully conduct tournaments to ensure their continued operation. After a complaint, the commission carried out a review and found that some of the league’s current practices were not in compliance with the Gaming Control Act of 1993.
As per Ferguson, poker games or tournaments that involve prizes can legally take place in hotels and clubs as long as no fee or cost to participate is charged, and no money or items of value are wagered by players.
The review identified instances where a cost of entry was effectively charged, which was likely not compliant with the Gaming Control Act. The Act specifies that only a licensed casino operator can run a poker game or tournament involving wagering of money or charging an entry fee.