VGCCC Comprehensive Investigation into Underage Gambling
The Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC), the gaming regulator for the Australian state, has announced it has completed its most comprehensive investigation into underage gambling in the region.
LISTEN TO THIS ARTICLE:This followed a complaint from a parent in Victoria unhappy with the actions of a gaming company. The parent was unhappy with the role gaming operators played in their child’s gambling activity and believed the bookmaker did not carry out appropriate checks and procedures to create a safe environment for those vulnerable to gambling related harm.
The VGCCC explained the depth of the lengthy investigation, which involved over 2,000 hours of work at the regulator. There were also nearly 100 charges issued to gaming operators who had breached gambling legislation relating to the guidelines preventing minors from gambling.
The investigation led to 14 prosecutions and the regulator issued fines to gaming operators that breached gambling legislation that amounted to nearly $500,000, for offences that occurred between May 2022 and October 2023.
When industry is not diligent about complying with its 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 to account.
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Magistrate Issues Fine to Operator
The original complaint that started the probe was pursued by the VGCC through the legal system and culminated with the Magistrates verdict. The court handed out a fine of $3,000 to the Coburg TAB brand as well as meeting the VGCCC costs of $5,500.
The VGCCC says its gaming guidelines are in place to reduce the risk of gambling related harms for vulnerable individuals, including minors.
Also, the VGCCC said it was pleased to have held the gaming operator to account through the state legislative system and would continue to ensure gaming operators in the region are held to the highest standards.
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.
The regulator is committed to overseeing all forms of gaming in the state, both online and land-based gambling activities. Last year the VGCCC started an inquiry to modernize the bingo industry in the region.
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