Don Hammond announced as final judge for inaugural RTG Global Awards
The RTG Global Awards will be presented at the Regulating the Game 2026 Gala Dinner on March 10, 2026, at the Sofitel Sydney Wentworth.
Press release.- The organisers of the Regulating the Game conference have announced Don Hammond, chief executive officer of Leagues Clubs Australia (LCA), as the final judge joining the esteemed panel for the inaugural RTG Global Awards.
The RTG Global Awards will be presented at the Regulating the Game 2026 Gala Dinner on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at the Sofitel Sydney Wentworth, celebrating excellence in leadership, innovation, and impact across the global gambling sector.
Mr Hammond brings deep experience in governance, advocacy, and leadership through his stewardship of Leagues Clubs Australia, which represents and supports clubs nationwide in their ongoing commitment to Rugby League and community engagement.
Paul Newson, principal at Vanguard Overwatch and founder of Regulating the Game, said Don’s appointment completes an outstanding judging panel:
“Don brings a strong community and industry perspective that reinforces the RTG Global Awards’ focus on integrity, purpose, and impact. His leadership in strengthening club governance and advancing responsible gaming culture makes him an invaluable addition to the panel.”
Don Hammond welcomed the opportunity to join the panel and encouraged industry participation: “These awards are about shining a light on those setting the benchmark for responsible and effective industry leadership. I look forward to recognising the great work being done to build trust and capability across the sector and encourage organisations to put forward the people and initiatives that are driving progress and inspiring others to lead with purpose.”
Mr Hammond joins a distinguished lineup of judges, including:
Khalid Ali, Chief Executive Officer, International Betting Integrity Association (IBIA)
Jamie Nettleton, Partner, Addisons and former President, International Masters of Gaming Law (IMGL)
Tracy Parker, Vice-President, Policy, Standards & Accreditation, Responsible Gambling Council (RGC)
Together, the panel brings unparalleled expertise across governance, integrity, safer gambling, and industry leadership – ensuring the awards celebrate genuine excellence, innovation, and impact across the sector.
The RTG Global Awards feature six categories:
Leadership Voice – Recognising principled, reform-focused leadership that strengthens capability, trust, and integrity.
Safer Gambling Champion – Celebrating initiatives that deliver meaningful harm minimisation outcomes.
Compliance Excellence – Highlighting uplift in AML, risk culture, and regulatory compliance.
RegTech Solution of the Year – Showcasing technologies improving sector integrity and compliance.
Community Impact Initiative – Rewarding projects delivering tangible community benefit.
Emerging Leader – Spotlighting rising talent (under 40) driving positive change.
Nominations are now open – anyone can put forward a colleague, organisation, or initiative that exemplifies leadership and impact.
Visit www.regulatingthegame.com/global-awards-2026 to learn more and submit nominations.
The Regulating the Game 2026 programme will also feature Pitch! at the Sydney Opera House, an expanded exhibition showcase, and an outstanding line-up of global thought leaders.
