Victorian gov’t introduces amendments to gambling bill

The Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 2023, which the Victorian state government has submitted to parliament, gives it complete authority over pre-commitment and carded play regulations as well as the power to run Crown Melbourne should the present operator fail to reclaim its casino licence.

The daily shutdown times for gaming machine sections in non-casino venues between 4 am and 10 am are mandated by this statute. Additionally, it gives the government additional control over harmful betting by extending the gaming minister’s jurisdiction to prohibit wagers on events outside of Victoria, such sports involving minors.

The Finkelstein Royal Commission’s conclusions that Crown Melbourne was unfit to keep its casino licence prompted the creation of the bill. All 33 of the Royal Commission’s recommendations would be put into effect, the administration has promised.

In the event that the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission chooses to deny a casino licence, the bill explains and simplifies how it would deal with casino property. Additionally, it guarantees that all casino facilities, including table games, must use carded play and required pre-commitment systems.

Beginning in December 2023, patrons who use the casino’s gaming machines must keep track of their play utilising the YourPlay pre-commitment system. By December 2025, this need will also apply to table games, forcing the creation of new table game technology. Other changes include requiring pre-commitment limitations, requiring carded play on electronic gambling devices, capping loading limits at $100, and lowering game spin speeds to slow down play.

The Minister for Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation, Melissa Horne, emphasised that the goal of these amendments is to prevent and decrease damage caused by gambling, especially by providing people a pause between 4 am and 10 am to reevaluate their gaming activities and make responsible decisions.

Original story by: IAG