The Victoria Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) has once again emphasized the critical importance of adhering to operational guidelines for poker machine venues in Victoria. Operators face serious financial repercussions if they permit access to gambling areas outside of sanctioned hours.
As of last August, Victoria implemented stricter regulations regarding poker machine operations, mandating that these venues must close between 4 AM and 10 AM each day. This significant shift was designed to enhance oversight and responsible gambling practices in the region.
Despite the clarity of these laws, the VGCCC has reported that numerous establishments have failed to comply. On April 9, the Commission issued a warning to the industry about the potential consequences of continued non-compliance, particularly in light of the upcoming public holidays, Good Friday and ANZAC Day, which occur on April 18 and 25 this year. Venues should also be mindful that their liquor license regulations may impose additional restrictions on these holidays.
### Victoria’s Compliance Challenges and Financial Consequences
In 2024 alone, Victoria’s gaming venues have already faced steep penalties for violating opening hours rules, totaling AU$195,000 (approximately £90,910/€105,532/US$116,686). This reflects a growing trend of enforcement by the VGCCC, with 14 venues fined last year for similar transgressions prior to the enforcement of the new regulations. The Melbourne Racing Club was particularly impacted, incurring AU$60,000 in fines across three venues for allowing poker machine operations on Good Friday, including breaches at Steeples, The Coach and Horses, and Peninsula Club.
Furthermore, the Hoppers Crossing Club faced a AU$30,000 fine for operating outside permitted hours on both Good Friday and ANZAC Day, resulting in a poker machine revenue of AU$22,234 during the non-compliance period. Other establishments like the Goulburn Valley Hotel and Peninsula Hotel Motel were also subjected to significant fines, showcasing the VGCCC’s proactive measures to uphold compliance.
### Leadership Calls for Vigilance Amid Regulatory Changes
Suzy Neilan, the new CEO of the VGCCC, has taken a firm stance in urging venues to familiarize themselves with these regulations to avoid penalties. Emphasizing the importance of understanding opening hours in relation to a venue’s liquor license, Neilan noted the potential for additional restrictions during significant holidays.
“With Good Friday approaching, venues must ensure they fully grasp their obligations and operate their poker machines only during designated hours,” she advised. Neilan further highlighted that the VGCCC takes into account the duration of non-compliance, the revenue generated during illegal operations, and the venue’s previous adherence record when determining the severity of financial penalties.
The VGCCC has demonstrated its commitment to maintaining regulatory integrity, evidenced by recent fines issued for other infractions, including a AU$7,000 penalty against the Peninsula Club for allowing underage gambling. Such actions illustrate the Commission’s zero-tolerance approach toward regulatory violations, emphasizing the need for all operators to prioritize compliance.
In summary, as Victoria continues to navigate the complexities of gambling regulations, it is crucial for operators to remain vigilant and informed. With substantial financial implications for non-compliance, the pathway towards responsible gaming must be a shared responsibility among all stakeholders in the industry.