The Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) has sent a clear message to the gambling industry in the 2023-24 financial year: compliance is not negotiable. In its Annual Report, the regulator outlined 88 disciplinary actions, showcasing its commitment to enforcing strict rules and holding operators accountable. From fines to expanded inspections, the VGCCC’s approach is one of zero tolerance for breaches, aiming to ensure the industry operates fairly, transparently, and in line with the law.
Major Fines and Penalties for Non-Compliance
A key feature of the VGCCC’s enforcement in 2023-24 was its swift and decisive action against operators that violated gambling laws. Some of the most high-profile cases involved substantial fines and penalties aimed at sending a strong message about the regulator’s expectations.
- Tabcorp faced a significant penalty, with a $1 million fine handed down after the company was found guilty of non-compliance during a system outage investigation. This fine served as a reminder that gambling operators must uphold standards of reliability and transparency at all times.
- Australian Leisure and Hospitality Group (ALH) was hit with a $480,000 fine after it was found to have operated poker machines beyond the permitted hours. The VGCCC’s response highlighted its commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals from harm associated with excessive gambling.
- Myndit Pty Ltd, previously the operator of the Rye Hotel, received an $80,000 fine for breaching financial record-keeping regulations. Proper financial management is essential in maintaining the integrity of the gambling industry, and this action underscored the importance of compliance with all regulatory standards.
- Bluebet Pty Ltd also faced a hefty fine of $50,000 after being found guilty of 43 charges related to illegal advertising on public roads. The charges stemmed from a complaint lodged by a member of the public, showing that the regulator is not only responsive but also encourages the community to report unethical practices.
These actions are just a few examples of the VGCCC’s no-nonsense approach to policing the gambling sector. The total amount of fines imposed serves as a warning to all operators: the VGCCC will not tolerate non-compliance.
Robust Inspections and Expanding Accountability Measures
In addition to taking action against specific violations, the VGCCC ramped up its oversight activities throughout the year. The regulator conducted over 1,600 audits and more than 2,700 venue inspections, ensuring that gambling establishments are following the rules and prioritizing consumer protection.
- A major initiative was the regional compliance blitz, which targeted local gambling venues, ensuring they adhered to the rules and protecting minors from potential harm. This proactive approach addresses issues before they escalate, improving community trust in the regulator.
- The VGCCC also prosecuted 10 successful cases, further reinforcing its commitment to upholding the law. The increased number of inspections and prosecutions signifies a growing effort to stamp out illegal practices across the state, improving the industry’s overall integrity.
Chair Fran Thorn emphasized that the VGCCC’s actions are not just reactive but also preventative. “We have no tolerance for opportunistic contraventions of the law and will act decisively on detected violations,” she stated. This strong stance on enforcement serves as a deterrent to any operator considering breaching regulations.
Protecting the Community: New Measures and Initiatives
The VGCCC has placed a renewed focus on protecting vulnerable community members and maintaining the integrity of the gambling industry. In response to rising public concerns, the commission implemented several new measures to safeguard players and the broader community.
One of the most notable initiatives involved the collaboration with sports controlling bodies to ban betting on under-19 competitions and individual player performances for those under 18 years of age. This was a direct response to concerns about the potential for exploitation and harm to young athletes.
Additionally, the VGCCC introduced tighter controls on AFL Brownlow Medal betting after allegations surfaced regarding leaked votes. This move aimed to restore confidence in the integrity of betting practices surrounding major sporting events.
A particularly innovative move by the VGCCC was the launch of a public tip-off function, which allowed members of the public to report suspicious gambling activities. In its first year alone, this feature yielded over 260 reports, showing that the community is increasingly willing to take an active role in ensuring that gambling practices remain ethical and transparent.
Crown Melbourne’s License Renewal After Major Reforms
One of the year’s most closely watched developments involved the decision to renew Crown Melbourne’s casino license. After a tumultuous period marked by scandals and regulatory scrutiny, Crown was placed under strict supervision by a Special Manager for two years. In March 2024, the VGCCC decided that Crown was now fit to hold its casino license, following significant reforms. These reforms included overhauling governance practices, implementing new harm minimization measures, and adhering to a strict three-year Transformation Plan.
However, Crown’s continued operation will be under stringent conditions, ensuring that it remains compliant with all regulations. The VGCCC’s decision to grant Crown Melbourne its license is a reminder of the regulator’s balanced approach—recognizing progress and improvement while maintaining a strict focus on public safety and trust.
