Preston Hotel fined for allowing minor to gamble

In September 2022, the Preston Hotel let a 16-year-old to use the betting machines and place six bets. As a result, the court ordered the hotel to pay AU$25,300 ($16,600).

The Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) brought the charges in May 2023 after receiving a tip from a member of the public.

The court underlined that there might be long-term consequences from underage gaming and that it is the responsibility of the gambling industry and venues to stop these kinds of situations.

Eight more cases are slated to go to court at a later time, and this one is only one of several that accuse Tabcorp and other gambling businesses in Melbourne of allowing children to place bets.

VGCCC CEO Annette Kimmitt AM praised the decision, stating that “failure to prevent minors from accessing gambling products will not be tolerated.”

Original story by: Asia Gaming Brief