VGCCC Urges Gambling Operators to Address Gambling Harm Concerns

In Victoria, gambling operators face a heightened call for responsibility.

The VGCCC demands a rigorous duty of care, emphasizing the reduction of gambling harm.

Envision a gambling industry where customer safety and well-being are paramount.

Discover how the VGCCC is transforming Victoria’s gambling landscape to protect consumers and the community.

VGCCC’s Mandate on Gambling Harm Reduction

Established in July 2022, the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) is a pivotal regulatory body. It reminds operators of their crucial duty of care towards customers.

VGCCC’s Recent Statement: A Clarion Call for Accountability

The VGCCC has issued a powerful statement, underscoring the gambling industry’s responsibility to minimize gambling harm in Victoria. This recent declaration positions gambling harm prevention as a core principle guiding regulatory actions.

Chairperson Fran Thorn’s Stance on Operator Accountability

Fran Thorn, Chairperson of the VGCCC, stresses the need for gambling operators to be held accountable, beyond mere regulatory compliance. She draws a significant parallel between the impact of gambling and the known dangers of smoking and cancer. This comparison challenges the traditional views of “problem gambling,” urging a broader understanding of the industry’s impact.

CEO Annette Kimmitt’s Zero-Tolerance Approach

VGCCC CEO Annette Kimmitt advocates a zero-tolerance policy towards operators neglecting their duty to protect the community. She insists that operators must act decently, not just legally, emphasizing a commitment to ethical practices.

VGCCC’s Initiatives for Safer Gambling

The commission has implemented various initiatives to promote safer gambling:

• Harm minimization criteria in electronic gaming machine applications.
• Additional conditions for venues seeking more gaming machines.
• Bet limits and reinvestment restrictions in online gaming.
• Specific measures at Crown Casino to protect at-risk individuals from targeted marketing.

Conclusion: Shifting the Gambling Industry Paradigm

The VGCCC’s statement and actions signify a shift in Victoria’s gambling industry. The focus has moved from addressing failures in “responsible gambling” to proactively ensuring operators fulfill their duty of care. By prioritizing the well-being of consumers and the broader community, the VGCCC sets a new standard in regulatory oversight, aiming for a safer and more responsible gambling landscape in Victoria.