The Victoria Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) has penalised 12 clubs and hotels for operating gaming machines outside their allowed trading hours earlier this year.
The violations occurred on Good Friday and ANZAC Day, when poker machines were found running during times in which gaming activity is legally prohibited.
Following investigations, nine venues were issued fines, while three received formal censures. The largest penalty – A$15,000 – was imposed on Clayton RSL after gaming machines were found in use past 11:30pm on Good Friday, exceeding the venue’s permitted hours.
All 12 venues were found to have committed similar breaches. Under Victoria’s rules, each venue’s permitted gaming hours align with the liquor trading hours set out in its liquor licence.
Suzy Neilan, VGCCC CEO, mentioned:
The festive season is just around the corner, and we appreciate it is an extremely busy time for clubs and hotels. That is why it is so important to check your trading hours are compliant now.
Trading restrictions on days like Good Friday and ANZAC Day reflect the significance many people in the community place on these dates. It is important that we reflect community expectations surrounding these days and ensure that venues comply with the law.
We’re committed to continuing to work with industry to ensure that Victoria’s gambling industry is fair for all – including the operators, so we are encouraging all venues to better understand their trading hour obligations on days of significance.
