Australian racing and wagering giant Tabcorp has been ordered to pay AU$370,417 (US$246,790) in fines after pleading guilty to 43 charges of failing to prevent a minor from gambling across multiple venues in Victoria and for failing to properly supervise its Electronic Betting Terminals.
The order by the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court comes after the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) filed charges against Tabcorp in May 2023 in relation to multiple instances of a 17-year-old being
found to have gambled on multiple occasions between May 2022 to October 2023. The instances included violations across 13 different venues.
“The breaches committed by Tabcorp are incredibly serious, reflecting a fundamental failure to protect minors from the risks associated with gambling, as well as a lack of vigilance on their part,” said VGCCC CEO, Annette Kimmitt. “These failures undermine the integrity and safety of the industry.
“Gambling providers and their staff are on the frontline of our efforts to prevent underage gambling.
“It is their duty to rigorously check IDs and supervise gambling activities to ensure minors are not able to access these services. Their vigilance is crucial in safeguarding young people from the harms of gambling.
“It is imperative that all stakeholders in the gambling industry understand the gravity of this issue and take their responsibilities seriously to prevent such harm.
“The VGCCC is committed to protecting the community and ensuring that all gambling operations adhere to the highest standards of conduct.
“We will continue to take decisive action in upholding the safety and wellbeing of our community, particularly when it comes to children.”