Internal Affairs Minister Peter Dunne has released a public discussion document about the sustainability of community funding from pub and club gaming machines.

He says the release of the document is the next step in the Government's review of the class 4 gambling sector, which operates "pokie" machines in non-casino venues.

The discussion document sets out the key characteristics of the sector, and explores some of the challenges faced by those involved in class 4 gambling. It includes specific questions for the public about the challenges faced by the sector, and how to address those challenges.

"The aim of the review is to ensure funding to communities from the class 4 sector remains sustainable, without any growth in gambling, and minimising harm from gambling," Mr Dunne says.

The public consultation period will run for seven weeks, with the deadline for submissions 12 August 2016.