Tabcorp has been ordered to pay a fine of $370,417 due to its failure to prevent a minor from gambling at multiple Victorian venues, and for failing to reasonably supervise its electronic betting terminals.
The outcome was handed down by the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, 6 June and refers to charges that were issued against Tabcorp by the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Comission (VGCCC) in May 2023.
Between May 2022 and October 2023, a 17-year-old was found to have gambled on multiple occasions across multiple venues in Victoria.
The venues are the Albion Charles Hotel, Brunswick Club, Coburg TAB Agency, Cramers Hotel, Doncaster Hotel, Duke of Edinburgh Hotel, Edwardes Lake Hotel, Excelsior Hotel, Northcote TAB Agency, Olympic Hotel, Parkview Hotel, Preston Hotel, and Rose Shamrock & Thistle Hotel.
Annette Kimmitt AM, VGCCC CEO, commented on the outcome: “The breaches committed by Tabcorp are incredibly serious, reflecting a fundamental failure to protect minors from the risks associated with gambling, as well as a lack of vigilance on their part.
“These failures undermine the integrity and safety of the industry.”
The investigation was launched by the VGCCC after receiving a complaint from a member of the public. Facing a total of 54 charges, including 27 counts of allowing a minor to gamble and failing to supervise its electronic betting terminals, Tabcorp pleaded guilty to 43 charges.
“Gambling providers and their staff are on the frontline of our efforts to prevent underage gambling,” added Kimmitt.
“It is their duty to rigorously check IDs and supervise gambling activities to ensure minors are not able to access these services. Their vigilance is crucial in safeguarding young people from the harms of gambling.
“It is imperative that all stakeholders in the gambling industry understand the gravity of this issue and take their responsibilities seriously to prevent such harm,” she added.
“The VGCCC is committed to protecting the community and ensuring that all gambling operations adhere to the highest standards of conduct. We will continue to take decisive action in upholding the safety and wellbeing of our community, particularly when it comes to children.”
Tabcorp did not respond to a request for comment.