The Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) has charged Tabcorp and a hotel in the suburb of Preston in Melbourne for allowing a minor to gamble.
According to details released by the gaming regulator, venue staff at the Preston Hotel allowed a 16-year-old to access electronic betting terminals to place bets on six occasions in May and September 2022.
Having launched an investigation after receiving receiving a complaint, the VCGG said the Preston Hotel will face 15 charges, including six counts each of allowing a minor to gamble and failing to reasonably supervise its electronic betting terminals, and three charges of allowing a minor to enter a gaming machine area. These charges could attract a maximum fine of 1,200 penalty units, equal to AU$221,904 (US$149,780).
Tabcorp, which holds Victoria’s statewide wagering and betting licence, will also face eight charges, including counts of both allowing a minor to gamble and failing to reasonably supervise a gambling vending machine. Charges could attract a maximum fine of 560 penalty units or AU$103,505 (US$69,830).
“It is deeply concerning that a minor was able to access betting terminals and gamble on multiple occasions,” said VGCCC Gambling Director Glorija Kuzman.
“All gambling operators – including venues and the holder of the state-wide Wagering and Betting licence – have an irrefutable legal requirement to do everything they can to stop children from gambling.
“One of the most serious harms is minors gambling. All gaming venues must ensure they do not accept a bet from a minor and ask for identification from anyone they suspect could be underage.
“While electronic betting terminals are legal gambling products, they should not be easy for minors to access and use. Venue operators and Tabcorp are responsible for ensuring they are appropriately supervised at all times.”
The VGCCC said it is also investigating additional venues which may result in further charges.
