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VGCCC concludes underage gambling investigation
The Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) has concluded a major investigation into underage gambling, leading to 14 prosecutions, 98 charges, and nearly AU$500,000 ($318,850) in fines.
The main figure of the investigation was a 17-year-old boy with neurodiversity who managed to access gambling services between May 2022 and October 2023. Multiple operators failed to prevent him from betting, exposing serious breaches in compliance.
The investigation took more than 2,000 hours examining 10 gambling operators, including companies like Tabcorp and Australian Leisure and Hospitality Group (ALH).
VGCCC CEO Annette Kimmitt commented:
“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.”
Tabcorp received 43 charges and an AU$274,000 ($174,728) fine, while ALH was fined AU$175,000 ($111,597) for 23 charges across five venues. Smaller operators, including hotels and gaming venues, faced penalties between AU$2,500 ($1,595) and AU$15,000 ($9,566).
Annette Kimmitt added:
“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.”
More and more countries keep tightening gambling regulations and oversight of the market to ensure the protection of younger age groups.
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