Crown Melbourne Faces Reprimand over Gambling Regulations but Escapes Fines
The Victoria Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) has issued a reprimand to Crown Melbourne for violating state regulations aimed at minimizing gambling harm. While the casino was found to be in breach of these obligations, it notably avoided any financial penalties.
The VGCCC’s investigation revealed that Crown Melbourne permitted patrons to engage with poker machines without the mandated pre-play limits. These limits, stipulated by Victorian law, are designed to protect consumers from the risks associated with gambling.
Under the current regulations, all poker machines within the state must implement the government’s YourPlay program, which allows users to set and monitor their playing limits, both in terms of time and money spent. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to ensure responsible gambling practices across Victoria’s casinos.
The breaches identified occurred between December 2023 and July 2024, during which Crown was found to have allowed 22 players to exceed their self-imposed time or spending limits. Additionally, 10 players accessed machines using YourPlay accounts registered under different names, violations that spanned from December 2023 to August 2024.
Reprimand Issued but No Financial Penalty
In concluding its inquiry, the VGCCC chose to formally censure Crown Melbourne, factoring in the casino’s cooperation with the investigation and proof that the infractions were not part of a larger pattern. The regulator acknowledged that actions had been taken to rectify the situation, including enhanced employee training and improved monitoring systems.
Nevertheless, the VGCCC made it clear that this reprimand will remain on Crown’s record, warning of more severe consequences should similar violations recur. VGCCC Chairman Chris O’Neills stated, “Poker machines present significant risks, which is why we hold the industry accountable for protecting consumers from gambling harm.”
He emphasized the importance of pre-commitment programs in empowering players to set personal limits before gambling begins. Research supports the effectiveness of these systems in preventing gambling-related issues.
This recent warning comes on the heels of the VGCCC’s action against QuestBet, which was fined AU$80,000 (approximately US$51,928) for inadequately addressing signs of distress in a customer. These developments underline the regulatory body’s commitment to maintaining rigorous standards within the gambling industry to safeguard the welfare of players.