A Melbourne family’s ordeal has led to the most extensive enforcement action by the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) against underage gambling. The investigation spanned over 2000 hours, resulting in 14 prosecutions against 10 entities, 98 charges, and fines totaling $500,000.14 prosecutions against 10 businesses, 98 charges, and $500,000 in fines were the outcomes of the 2000-hour inquiry.
The case began after the mother of a 17-year-old raised concerns about her son’s gambling activities. Due to his neurodiversity and young age, he was at high risk of gambling-related harm. VGCCC CEO Annette Kimmitt AM acknowledged the impact on the family, stating, “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.”
Kimmitt praised the mother for coming forward despite the emotional toll. She emphasized the industry’s responsibility, saying, “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.”
Court Cases and Penalties
The final case concluded on February 13 in the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria. Correct Bet Pty Ltd, which operates the Coburg TAB, pleaded guilty to two charges. The court imposed a $3,000 fine without conviction and ordered the company to cover VGCCC’s $5,500 legal costs. Magistrate Hodgson acknowledged that Correct Bet had maintained a clean record for 14 years and had since introduced additional safeguards, including staff training and CCTV monitoring.
Another venue, Supreme Edinburgh Pty Ltd, trading as the Duke of Edinburgh in Brunswick, pleaded guilty on February 7 to three counts of breaching the Gambling Regulation Act 2003. The operator received a $2,500 fine and had to pay $4,950 in VGCCC costs.
Kimmitt reinforced the responsibility of gambling venues, stating, “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 acknowledged that while legal action had concluded, the family’s recovery would take much longer.
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