The Christmas holiday season is approaching, and the gambling regulatory authority in Victoria, Australia, has issued a clear compliance reminder to local clubs and hotels. The Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) emphasized that all venues must carefully check their licensed operating hours before December 25 to ensure that gambling devices such as slot machines cease operation outside legal hours to avoid penalties.
Regulatory Warning and Penalty Background
Susie Nylan, CEO of VGCCC, stated in the announcement: "The festive season is coming, and we understand that this is an extremely busy time for clubs and hotels. That's why it's particularly important to check now whether your operating hours are compliant." This warning is not unfounded, as it is based on penalty cases earlier this year. Previously, the regulatory body had fined and reprimanded nine venue operators for operating illegally on special dates such as Good Friday and ANZAC Day, with total fines amounting to 58,000 Australian dollars (approximately 37,700 US dollars).
Specific Cases and High Fines
In this year's compliance investigations, 12 venues were found to operate slot machines outside permitted hours. Among them, the Clayton RSL Club received the highest fine—15,000 Australian dollars, for gambling activities beyond the time specified in its liquor license on Good Friday, generating a net operating income of 2,444 Australian dollars. The regulatory body pointed out that imposing restrictions on these important days reflects the general expectations of the community, and it is crucial for venues to comply with the law. Last year, VGCCC had issued fines totaling 180,000 Australian dollars to 11 venues, indicating that such issues are a continuous focus of regulatory attention.
The Importance of Compliance Continues to be Highlighted
As gambling industry regulations become increasingly strict worldwide, adhering to operating hours, advertising standards, and other specific terms has become a basic obligation for operators. Whether it's Australia's festive restrictions or other market entry rules, a deep understanding and compliance with local laws and regulations are prerequisites for sound business operations. Following professional information platforms like PASA's official website helps in obtaining timely global regulatory dynamics and compliance interpretations.
————
This article is from "PASA-Global iGaming Leaders," a gambling industry news channel:https://t.me/pasa_news
Original in-depth gambling channel:https://t.me/gamblingdeep
Free data reports: @pasa_research
PASA Matrix: @pasa002_bot
PASA official website: https://www.pasa.news
