VGCCC Concludes Extensive Investigation into Underage Gambling Violations
The Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) has completed its most comprehensive investigation into underage gambling. The regulator spent over 2,000 hours reviewing violations, leading to significant fines and legal action against multiple operators.
VGCCC Enforces Stricter Gambling Regulations
The Commission imposed fines exceeding half a million Australian dollars after filing 14 prosecutions against 10 entities and announcing nearly 100 charges.
By cracking down on violations, the VGCCC reinforced its commitment to protecting young people and upholding state gambling laws.
Operators Penalized for Violations
Several operators admitted to breaking the Gambling Regulation Act 2003. Earlier this month, Supreme Edinburgh Pty Ltd, which runs the Duke of Edinburgh in Brunswick, pleaded guilty to three charges. The court ordered the company to pay AU$2,500 ($1,581) in fines and AU$4,950 ($3,130) in VGCCC costs.
On February 13, 2025, Correct Bet Pty Ltd, operator of the Coburg TAB outlet, also pleaded guilty to two charges. The court imposed a AU$3,000 ($1,900) fine and required the company to pay AU$5,500 ($3,480) in VGCCC costs.
Regulator Warns Gambling Venues to Enforce Age Restrictions
VGCCC CEO Annette Kimmitt emphasized that venues must prevent minors from gambling.
“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,” she stated.
Kimmitt, who plans to step down next month for personal reasons, has played a key role in strengthening enforcement efforts.
Mother’s Complaint Triggers Investigation
A mother’s report about her 17-year-old son, who faced a high risk of gambling harm due to his neurodiversity, led the VGCCC to take action. Reflecting on the case, Kimmitt praised the parent’s courage:
“I can only imagine how difficult it was for the mother to come to us, and I commend her for doing so.”
She hoped the regulator’s actions would bring some reassurance to the family, which had endured significant distress.
VGCCC Strengthens Market Oversight
Kimmitt warned that non-compliant operators can cause serious and lasting harm to Victorians. She reaffirmed the VGCCC’s commitment to monitoring the industry and enforcing gambling laws to prevent future violations.
