COMMUNITY clubs will be able to open their doors as refuges during extreme heat and smoke events under a new law passed by the ACT Legislative Assembly on Wednesday.

During an emergency or other hazard, suitable clubs can be declared as refuges, where community members can find respite and relief during emergencies, such as a big bushfire.

Clubs in use as refuges will be required to have an area separate from gaming machines and alcohol. In addition, the clubs must let people know of alternative refuge venues, such as libraries, that can be used during an emergency.

While the declaration is in force, clubs will be entitled to claim some expenses arising from their use as a refuge as community purpose contributions.

Members of the Heat and Smoke Refuge Working Group, which involve two gambling harm reduction experts and two club representatives from the Community Clubs Ministerial Advisory Council, will continue to assist the implementation of the club-refuge program.

The framework for clubs to operate as refuges will be in place for the 2023/24 bushfire season.