The Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) has filed charges against Rumotel Pty, the operator of Tower Hotel. The charges are for multiple violations of the Gambling Regulation Act 2003.
A total of 35 charges have been brought against Tower Hotel. 34 of these charges are related to the YourPlay responsible gaming scheme, specifically for failing to provide players with the ability to set time and spend limits.
The remaining charge is due to Tower Hotel staff not completing mandatory training.
As a result of these violations, Tower Hotel is prohibited from offering gaming machines to the public until the issues are resolved.
Annette Kimmitt AM, CEO of VGCCC, emphasized the importance of venue operators complying with the legal obligation of protecting the community from gambling harm.
The VGCCC is actively monitoring venue compliance regarding the availability of the YourPlay system on electronic gaming machines. Any operators found to be intentionally breaching their obligations will face consequences.
The YourPlay scheme, introduced in 2015, allows players to set time and money limits before gambling. It is free for players to use and mandatory for all venues in Victoria.
Tower Hotel may face a maximum fine of AU$758,172 (US$488,831) for the 35 charges filed against them.
Earlier this summer, the VGCCC urged operators to discontinue problematic promotions that were linked to club sponsorships.