The Victorian Gambling and Casino Control (VGCCC) in Australia has issued a warning to venues with poker machines in the run-up to the public holidays. New laws were passed in 2024 that put a blanket ban on the usage of gambling machines between the hours of 4 am and 10 am, in an attempt to curb addiction.
The VGCCC has already handed out $195,000 in fines to 14 different venues, with another four sent warnings. Suzy Neilan, the VGCCC’s new CEO, said in the press release announcing the warnings and fines:
“In Victoria, the availability of poker machines is restricted to a venue’s liquor licence hours, which may have additional restrictions on them on Good Friday, ANZAC Day, and Christmas Day.
“With Good Friday almost upon us, I strongly advise venues to ensure they know, understand and comply with the obligations of their licence and only operate their poker machines during permitted hours.”
Last year, the VGCCC fined the Melbourne Racing Club $60,000 for allowing usage of its machines before noon. $30,000 was brought against Hoppers Crossing Club Limited after it was found that $22,234 was made through its machines.
Victoria plans more reforms to gambling machines
According to Neilan, the VGCCC calculates the fines against offending venues by time, revenue, and compliance with other laws. The list of venues is available on the VGCCC website.
Victoria is also pushing for major changes to how poker machines are used. A proposed new system would require a player card to be inserted before it can be used. This will come with preloaded cash, which should curtail excessive spending at the poker machines.
Australia is currently experiencing a massive surge in gambling, as it’s been described as a “black hole” in some households. Average losses total $1,527 AUD ($959.29), with urgent action suggested by the Alliance for Gambling Reform and the Wesley Mission.
