Australian court fines Tabcorp almost €230,000 for failing to prevent underage gambling 

The Melbourne Magistrates’ Court has imposed a fine of AUD370,417 (€227,769) on Tabcorp after the company pleaded guilty to 43 charges related to underage gambling and inadequate supervision of its Electronic Betting Terminals. The charges were brought by the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) following an investigation into incidents involving a 17-year-old gambling at multiple venues across Victoria. 

In May 2023, the VGCCC charged Tabcorp after it was discovered that a minor had gambled on numerous occasions between May 2022 and October 2023. The venues involved included Albion Charles Hotel, Brunswick Club, Coburg TAB Agency, Cramers Hotel, Doncaster Hotel, Duke of Edinburgh Hotel, Edwardes Lake Hotel, Excelsior Hotel, Northcote TAB Agency, Olympic Hotel, Parkview Hotel, Preston Hotel, and Rose Shamrock & Thistle Hotel. 

VGCCC’s reaction 

Annette Kimmitt AM, CEO of the VGCCC, emphasised the gravity of Tabcorp’s breaches. “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,” she stated. Kimmitt underscored the importance of gambling providers and their staff in preventing underage gambling.  “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,” Kimmitt continued. “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.” 

Commitment to community safety 

Kimmitt stressed the VGCCC’s commitment to protecting the community and ensuring the gambling industry adheres to the highest standards of conduct. “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,” she said.   “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,” she said.  The hefty fine serves as a stern reminder to gambling providers about their critical role in preventing underage gambling and maintaining the industry’s integrity. 

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