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The Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC), an Australian independent regulator, has completed its important investigation regarding underage gambling. The findings resulted in 98 separate charges and AU$500,000 ($318,850) in fines.
One of the standout cases involved a 17-year-old boy with neurodiversity. Mistakes were made by several gambling operators in failing to stop minors from placing bets from May 2022 to October 2023.
Speaking on the investigation and the individual in question specifically, Annette Kimmitt, VGCC CEO said: “When industry players are not diligent about complying with their legal and social obligations, the consequences for everyday Victorians can be serious and long-lasting, which is why the VGCCC is determined to hold operators accountable.”
Who was fined following the investigation?
Findings came as a result of over 2,000 hours of information, which focused on 10 entities. The list included Tabcorp Wagering, Australian Leisure and Hospitality Group (ALH), and other leading operators.
Tabcorp Wagering is now on the wrong end of 43 charges and fines totaling AU$274,000 ($174,728). ALH faces AU$175,000 ($111,597) in fines following 23 charges across five of their facilities.
The VGCCC also cracked down on smaller gaming venues, hotels, and operators. Fines here varied from AU $2,500 ($1,595) to AU$15,000 ($9,566). All fines were as a result of breaches to the Gambling Regulation Act 2003.
Why this is a timely reminder for gambling operators
The investigation was concluded on February 13, 2024, with Correct Bet Pty Ltd, the Coburg TAB operator, fined AU$3,000 ($1,914) and made to pay AU$5,500 ($3,508) in costs. The magistrate in charge alluded to the fact that the operator had no previous convictions.
Coburg has also promised to make improvements in this area through CCTV and staff training. The Tweet below shows how the VGCCC is continuing to monitor the industry.
We’re dedicated to protecting the Victorian community from gambling harm.
Our audits and inspections allow us to identify risks, and your complaints and tip-offs play a crucial role in helping us ensure the gambling industry operates fairly, safely, and with integrity. pic.twitter.com/fqBpD9kMgs
— Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (@VicGCCC) December 18, 2024
Speaking on the importance of operators sticking to the rules regarding underage gambling, Kimmitt stated: Kimmitt emphasized that the case serves as a stark reminder to the gambling industry: “It is a venue’s responsibility to ensure minors do not access a designated gambling area, let alone gamble, no matter how determined or convincing a child might be.”
