Australian VGCCC to fine casinos for pokie law breaches
Ahead of Good Friday and ANZAC Day in Australia, the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) has sent out a strong warning to bars and clubs, advising them to strictly adhere to trading hours when poker machines are open for business or face harsh fines.
This comes after a 2024 crackdown in which the VGCCC issued formal letters of censure to four venue operators and fined 14 others a total of AU $195,000 (€117,000) for violating public holiday restrictions.
In a newly released memo, VGCCC’s newly appointed CEO, Suzy Neilan, reinforced the Commission’s stance: “With Good Friday almost upon us, I strongly advise venues to ensure they know, understand, and comply with the obligations of their licence and only operate their poker machines during permitted hours.”
No gambling allowed on public holidays
Last year, the Melbourne Racing Club received the highest total fine of AU $60,000 (€36,000) after operating poker machines outside approved hours at three venues: Steeples, The Coach and Horses, and Peninsula Club. All three allowed gaming before noon on Good Friday, violating state regulations.
Hoppers Crossing Club Limited was penalised AU $30,000 (€18,000) for breaches on both Good Friday and ANZAC Day, during which the venue recorded poker machine turnover of AU $22,234 (€13,340).
Among the venues that issued letters of censure, the Sale & District Greyhound Racing Club was cited for failing to comply with ANZAC Day trading rules. Smaller venues, including Riversdale Hotel, Clayton RSL, and Shepparton Club, were fined between AU $3,000 and AU $20,000 (€1,800–€12,000).
VGCCC’s compliance mandate
For the unaware, Victoria’s liquor license requirements place extra limitations on important occasions like Good Friday, ANZAC Day, and Christmas Day and regulate the operation of poker machines.
Since August 2024, all Victorian venues have been obliged to shut down poker machines daily between 4 A.M. and 10 A.M. as part of a broader initiative to reduce gambling harm across the state.
The VGCCC also mandates harm minimisation tools, including the YourPlay pre-commitment system, on all poker machines. It actively monitors venue compliance, issuing show-cause notices and penalties for violations, such as operating machines outside permitted hours.
“When determining penalties,” Ms Neilan explained, “we considered the length of time customers were able to gamble outside permitted hours, the revenue generated, and the venue’s history of compliance.”
While poker machine use is restricted, RSL Victoria-approved venues may still host the traditional two-up game on ANZAC Day and during commemorative events leading up to it.
The VGCCC has also encouraged venue operators to verify their trading obligations via its official website or by calling 1300 599 759. The public members can also lodge complaints or submit anonymous tips regarding suspected misconduct.
