The Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) has concluded a landmark investigation into underage gambling, resulting in 14 prosecutions, 98 charges, and fines totaling nearly AU$500,000 ($318,850).
The case, which involved a 17-year-old boy with neurodiversity, exposed systemic failures by multiple gambling operators to prevent minors from accessing gambling services between May 2022 and October 2023.
In a press release on Monday, VGCCC CEO Annette Kimmitt AM described the harm caused to the boy’s family as irreparable, commending the mother for coming forward to report the issue. “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,” Kimmitt stated.
The investigation, which spanned over 2,000 hours, targeted 10 entities, including major operators like Tabcorp Wagering and Australian Leisure and Hospitality Group (ALH).
Tabcorp faces 43 charges and fines of AU$274,000 ($174,728), while ALH was penalized AU$175,000 ($111,597) for 23 charges across five venues. Smaller operators, including hotels and gaming venues, received fines ranging from AU$2,500 ($1,595) to AU$15,000 ($9,566) for breaches of the Gambling Regulation Act 2003.
The final case concluded on February 13th, 2024, with Correct Bet Pty Ltd, operator of the Coburg TAB, fined AU$3,000 ($1,914) and ordered to pay AU$5,500 ($3,508) in costs. Magistrate Hodgson noted the operator’s lack of prior convictions and its implementation of additional safeguards, such as staff training and CCTV monitoring.
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.”
