A cashless gaming trial in NSW will be delayed because the committee of experts designing the experiment is yet to determine how to proceed.
The government was set to roll out its cashless gaming trial on 500 machines in clubs and pubs in July but disputes between stakeholders over the make-up of the supervising panel have pushed back the start.
Gaming Minister David Harris said the reason was due to several stakeholders from harm minimisation areas and members of the crossbench preferring to get the trial right than adhere to the deadline.
"So that wasn't the government saying that," he told parliament on Thursday.
"It was actually the people who will be affected by the trial.
"(They) have said to me that they will trust that ... we will do what is necessary to make sure that the trial is effective and it works."
The year-long trial is being designed by an independent panel of experts from the industry, law enforcement, health and academics which will evaluate its effectiveness.
Independent MP for Sydney Alex Greenwich isn't bothered by the delay.
"I know there is a great deal of impatience in the community when it comes to the trial (but) for this to be a success, we've got to do it right," he told reporters.
"We've got to make sure that this trial is as robust as possible and I have great confidence in the minister and in the government."
Opposition Leader Mark Speakman says the delay is unacceptable.
"It's a breach of promise. We know pubs and clubs are very keen to get on board," he told reporters.
"It's hurting those who need that assistance.
"It's important to get it right and to do it on time."
Nationals MP Kevin Anderson called on the government to let the community know exactly why the delays are occurring and when the trial will begin.
“The community deserves better," he said.
