The Victoria Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) has fined the Peninsula Club in Dromana, Australia, for allowing a minor to enter a gambling area and use poker machines. The Magistrates’ Court of Victoria imposed a fine of AUD7,000 (€4,180) on the venue owner, Victorian Amateur Turf Club, for five breaches of the Gambling Regulation Act 2003 and ordered it to pay AUD3,500 (€2,090) in legal costs. No conviction was recorded.
The case is part of a larger crackdown by the VGCCC on venues failing to prevent underage gambling. VGCCC CEO Annette Kimmitt AM emphasized that all operators must take their responsibilities seriously. She warned: “The onus is on you to ensure that children cannot and do not enter the gambling area or participate in any gambling activity, even if they’re with an adult.”
This marks the third prosecution involving minors finalized this year. Other venues penalized include:
- Correct Bet Pty Ltd (Coburg TAB outlet) – fined AUD3,000 (€1,792) for allowing a minor to gamble.
- Supreme Edinburgh Pty Ltd (Duke of Edinburgh, Brunswick) – fined AUD2,500 (€1,493) after pleading guilty to three breaches.
These cases stem from the VGCCC’s largest action against underage gambling, which resulted in 98 charges and total fines nearing AUD500,000 (€298,628).
Kimmitt reaffirmed the VGCCC’s commitment to enforcement, stating: “When industry is not diligent about complying with its legal and social obligations, the consequences for everyday Victorians can be serious and long-lasting.” The regulator also reminded the public that anyone concerned about minors being allowed to gamble or a gambling provider’s misconduct can file a complaint with the VGCCC.