Tabcorp has been mandated by the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) to transition the majority of its Electronic Betting Terminals (EBTs) to cashless operations.
Under the statewide direction issued by the VGCCC, Tabcorp's betting terminals will be prohibited from accepting cash bets unless the wagers are placed within five metres and within the line of sight of the counter.
Starting late January 2024, approximately 70% of Tabcorp's 1800 EBTs across Victoria will exclusively accept vouchers. Patrons seeking to use these terminals will need to visit the counter to obtain a voucher, with mandatory ID checks for individuals appearing to be under 25.
In addition to this transition, Tabcorp has been instructed to implement an independent “mystery shopper” program to verify that venues are effectively checking IDs.
Over the past eight months, the VGCCC has charged Tabcorp and nine venues for various offences, including allowing minors in gaming machine areas, enabling minors to gamble and failing to adequately supervise EBTs.
Annette Kimmitt AM, CEO of VGCCC, emphasised that these strengthened measures are a response to persistent breaches despite prior warnings. She stated: “It is inexcusable to accept a bet from a minor and tougher actions are required to protect the community, especially children, from gambling harm.
“Venue staff are the first line of defence in protecting minors from gambling. We have taken decisive measures where they have failed to take their responsibilities seriously”.
Tabcorp faces a total of 72 charges related to allowing minors to gamble and failing to supervise its EBTs. If found guilty, the potential fines could reach over one million Australian dollars collectively for the operators, with Tabcorp facing a maximum fine of AU$969,236 (US$644,886).
