Australia’s MintBet faces €60K penalty for allowing extended gambling session
MintBet, an Australian sports betting platform, has incurred a fine of AU$100,000 (€60,500) from the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) for permitting a customer to engage in a 35-hour gambling spree within a 50-hour timeframe.
Signs of gambling-related distress
The VGCCC said MintBet failed to intervene despite the customer exhibiting signs of distress associated with problem gambling. The commission emphasized that MintBet continued to accept bets from the customer despite apparent indicators of gambling-related distress.
Authorities highlighted that MintBet only took action to close the customer’s account after the individual self-identified as experiencing harm from their gambling activities. Throughout the episode, the customer placed 327 bets via their online account, resulting in a loss of AU$31,149 (€18,807).
System enhancement required
As part of the penalty, MintBet is mandated to report to the VGCCC regarding enhancements to its systems and processes. The commission will evaluate MintBet’s response and assess the need for further action.
Scott May, Deputy CEO of VGCCC, underscored the severity of consequences for gambling providers failing to adhere to responsible gambling standards, emphasizing a zero-tolerance approach to such negligence.
Despite MintBet featuring a segment on its website outlining signs of problem gambling, including difficulties in controlling or halting gambling behavior and excessive time or money spent on gambling, the platform’s oversight in addressing customer distress drew regulatory scrutiny.
This incident reflects a broader trend in Australia, with authorities increasingly imposing fines on both land-based and online gambling operators for inadequacies in addressing problem gambling. As regulatory bodies intensify efforts to uphold responsible gambling standards, operators face heightened scrutiny to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and safeguard customer well-being.
VGCCC on gambling ads ban
Earlier this year, the VGCCC pushed for a ban on gambling advertisements following numerous complaints from parents who discovered their children engaging in gambling activities without their knowledge. The movement for gambling reform in Australia has gathered steam, backed by the regulator, vigilant parents, and advocates for reducing gambling-related harm. There’s mounting pressure on the federal government to take decisive steps in addressing community concerns, aligning with insights provided by the regulator.
