Beyond the Keynotes: Insights to Strengthen Your Club at the 2025 ClubsNSW Conference

While high-profile speakers will provide big-picture perspectives, the surrounding sessions are where directors and CEOs can engage with the practical insights needed to lead confidently in a changing landscape.

On the Thursday, AUSTRAC CEO, Brendan Thomas, will share the agency’s sharpened focus on financial crime in the gambling sector – essential knowledge as clubs prepare for the 2026 reforms. 

Adding a global perspective, Mitch Bowen and Rohan Sundram will unpack international gaming trends in the ‘Future of Gaming’ session, highlighting how operators are navigating the balance between responsible gaming, AML requirements, and enhancing player experience through innovation. 

To round out the day, Tarek Barakat from Liquor & Gaming NSW will provide a direct regulatory update, outlining current compliance priorities and what clubs should be preparing for now.

The spotlight shifts to resilience on Friday: 

National Cyber Security Coordinator LTGEN Michelle McGuinness will discuss why clubs, as community hubs and data custodians, are increasingly attractive targets for cybercrime. Her session will emphasise practical steps to build cyber resilience and protect member trust. 

Later, Richard Lee (Kordamentha), Sue Bradford (KPMG), and Lachlan Gepp (Addisons) will challenge leaders to consider whether their AML frameworks are robust enough to withstand both regulatory and public scrutiny, providing practical strategies for strengthening compliance and reputation.

Additionally, targeted breakout sessions will allow delegates to dive deeper into critical areas:

• Consumer Trends Shaping the Hospitality Experience will explore shifting behaviours shaping the club experience, from the rise of in-play betting and the introduction of ‘bump stations’, to insights into gaming behaviour, loyalty programs, and evolving beverage and entertainment preferences – this session explores how clubs can stay ahead of changing customer expectations.
• A New Approach – SafeWork and Outdoor Areas at Clubs will unpack the recent wave of Improvement Notices issued by SafeWork NSW in relation to outdoor areas. Led by Greg McCann from HWL Ebsworth, this session explores the intersection of workplace health and safety legislation, AML/CTF guidelines, responsible gambling laws, and operational realities – providing practical guidance to help clubs protect staff wellbeing, maintain compliance, and adapt to an evolving regulatory environment.
• Directors Oversight of Company Compliance will focus on one of a director’s most critical responsibilities: ensuring compliance. Delivered by Dr John Sing from the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD), this session provides expert insights into the frameworks, processes, and strategies boards need to effectively oversee compliance obligations – equipping directors with the tools to strengthen governance and meet community and regulator expectations.
• Next-Gen Appeal: Delivering Club Experiences for a Younger Crowd will explore how clubs can move beyond traditional models to attract younger patrons. From modern sports bars and interactive entertainment to on-trend food and beverage offerings, Tully Heard and a panel of club leaders will share how research, engagement, and smart design are transforming venues into vibrant, youth-focused social hubs.

These sessions ensure that beyond the conference keynotes, club leaders will gain tangible insights to manage compliance, mitigate risk, and reimagine their venues for the future.

The 2025 ClubsNSW Conference is not just about inspiration – it’s about equipping directors and CEOs with the knowledge and strategies to future-proof their clubs and strengthen their leadership in an evolving industry.

Secure your tickets to the ClubsNSW Conference & AGM here.