Melbourne, Australia – The Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) has fined and censured 12 clubs and hotels across Victoria a combined $58,000 for breaching permitted gaming trading hours on Good Friday and ANZAC Day earlier this year.
Commission’s Warning Ahead of Christmas
With the festive season approaching, VGCCC CEO Suzy Neilan urged venues to ensure compliance with trading restrictions before 25 December.
“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,” Neilan said.
Breaches and Penalties
- Poker machines were found in use at 12 venues during prohibited hours on Good Friday.
- Kerang Bowling Club and The Bridge Hotel (Mordialloc) also breached ANZAC Day restrictions.
- Nine venues received fines, while three others were censured following VGCCC investigations.
The largest fine was issued to Clayton RSL ($15,000) for allowing gaming outside permitted liquor license hours on Good Friday. Poker machines were in use after 11:30 pm, generating a net turnover of $2,444.
Community Expectations
Neilan emphasized that trading restrictions on significant days reflect community values:
“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 and ensure venues comply with the law.”
She added that the VGCCC remains committed to working with industry to ensure Victoria’s gambling sector is fair and compliant, encouraging venues to better understand their obligations on days of significance.
Enforcement History
The latest penalties follow last year’s enforcement, when 11 venues were fined a total of $180,000 for similar breaches.
