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Victoria Gambling Watchdog Mandates Cashless Betting Terminals

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Cashless Betting: Victoria’s Bold Move to Safeguard Responsible Gaming

In a groundbreaking move, the Victoria Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) has directed Tabcorp to convert most of its electronic betting terminals (EBTs) in Victoria to a cashless system. This decisive action follows several incidents of underage gambling, spotlighting the necessity for stricter regulatory measures in the gaming industry. Set to roll out by late January, this change will affect approximately 70% of the 1,800 Tabcorp EBTs across Victoria, signaling a major shift towards responsible gambling.

Enhanced Age Verification for Safer Gaming

The transition to cashless terminals is part of a comprehensive strategy to prevent underage gambling. Gamers wishing to use these terminals will need to purchase a voucher at the counter, where they will undergo ID checks. This process reinforces age verification, ensuring only legally-aged individuals can gamble. This added layer of scrutiny is vital in protecting minors and upholding the integrity of the gaming sector.

Ensuring ID Checks Are Enforced

Tabcorp is also mandated to implement an independent “mystery shopper” programme, aimed at verifying that venues are conducting proper ID checks. This proactive measure seeks to ensure that all gaming venues adhere to the new standards, fostering a culture of compliance and responsibility within the industry.

Escalating Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failure to comply with these requirements could trigger a series of escalating penalties for Tabcorp. These include switching all EBTs in non-compliant venues to vouchers for six months and potentially terminating agreements with those venues. This strict enforcement policy underlines the VGCCC’s commitment to safeguarding the community from gambling-related harm.

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Zero Tolerance for Underage Gambling

VGCCC CEO Annette Kimmitt has criticized the lapses in preventing minors from gambling as “inexcusable.” The commission’s rigorous approach not only aims to curb underage gambling but also addresses concerns like money laundering. This reflects the VGCCC’s dedication to reducing gambling harm and enforcing a high standard of care within the community.

Legal Consequences for Regulatory Failures

The VGCCC has filed charges against Tabcorp and nine other venues for multiple underage gambling violations over the past year. These charges, totaling 72 against Tabcorp alone, stem from alleged breaches between September 2022 and October 2023. This includes instances of allowing minors to gamble and failing to properly supervise EBTs. The severity of these charges underscores the necessity for strict regulatory adherence and showcases the VGCCC’s active role in penalizing non-compliant operators.

Legal Repercussions Await Tabcorp

These legal actions highlight the VGCCC’s commitment to enforcing gambling regulations. Tabcorp’s forthcoming appearance in the Melbourne magistrates court on 24 January will be a key moment in this ongoing regulatory saga. With the potential collective fines exceeding $1.0 million, this case exemplifies the financial and reputational risks of non-compliance.

Victoria’s Crackdown on Rule Violations

This cashless EBT mandate is part of Victoria’s broader initiative to enhance responsible gambling practices and enforce existing regulations. The VGCCC’s actions against Rumotel for alleged responsible gambling officer and register maintenance lapses further demonstrate the state’s commitment to a safer gambling environment. These stringent measures reflect the state’s determination to protect its citizens from gambling-related harm and maintain the integrity of its gaming industry.

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In conclusion, Victoria’s shift towards cashless betting terminals represents a significant development in the Australian gambling landscape. This move by the VGCCC, with its focus on enhanced age verification and strict compliance measures, demonstrates a robust approach to responsible gambling and the protection of vulnerable groups. As the industry continues to evolve, such regulatory initiatives will be crucial in maintaining the balance between the economic benefits of gambling and the well-being of the community.


Jerome, a valuable addition to the Gamingo.News team, brings with him extensive journalistic experience in the iGaming sector. His interest in the industry was sparked during his college years when he participated in local poker tournaments, eventually leading to his exposure to the burgeoning world of online poker and casino rooms. Jerome now utilizes his accumulated knowledge to fuel his passion for journalism, providing the team with the latest online scoops.

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