The Victoria Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) has completed its most comprehensive investigation of underage gambling, which ultimately has seen 98 charges and fines totalling $499,000.
The VGCCC investigation was promoted after the mother of a 17-year-old boy contacted the regulator to report concerns that her son’s age and neurodiversity put him at high risk of gambling harm.
VGCCC CEO Annette Kimmitt said: “Nothing can make up for the harm a Melbourne family experienced as a result of the failure by multiple operators to prevent a young teen from gambling between May 2022 and October 2023.
“I can only imagine how difficult it was for the mother to come to us, and I commend her for doing. I hope the outcomes and conclusion of these proceedings bring her some comfort, following the significant trauma she and her family have gone through.”
The VGCCC carried out more than 2000 hours of investigations, which culminated in 14 prosecutions against 10 entities, 98 charges and fines totalling half-a-million dollars.
Kimmitt added: “When industry is not diligent about complying with its legal and social obligations, the consequences for everyday Victorians can be serious and long lasting, which is why the VGCCC is determined to hold operators to account.
“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.
“We welcome the outcome of these court hearings, which bring to a close all prosecutions involving this family. Unfortunately, the family’s recovery from this experience is likely to take a lot longer and leave a painful scar.”
Anyone with concerns about minors being allowed to gamble or gambling provider’s behaviour can lodge a complaint or tip-off on the VGCCC website.
Anyone negatively affected by their own or someone else’s gambling is encouraged to call the 24/7 Gambler’s Helpline on 1800 858 858 for free and confidential support.