NSW launches compliance operation to prevent underage gambling during festive season
The initiative aims to strengthen security measures at casinos, ensuring operators meet legal obligations while imposing penalties on minors who breach access laws.
Key points:
– L&GNSW targets underage gambling and drinking in casinos with increased compliance checks during the holiday season
– Minors caught face fines, bans and the forfeiture of gambling winnings
– Casino operators must enforce ID checks, staff training and internal controls to prevent violations
Liquor & Gaming NSW (L&GNSW) has launched a compliance operation aimed at preventing individuals under 18 from entering casinos, gambling or consuming alcohol during the holiday season.
This initiative seeks to uphold the state’s strict regulatory standards as casino visitation typically increases during the Christmas and New Year period.
Minors found in violation of these laws face significant consequences, including fines of up to AU$4,400 (US$2,803), forfeiture of any gambling winnings and bans preventing them from entering casinos until at least the age of 19.
L&GNSW A/Executive Director of Regulatory Operations, Dimitri Argeres, said: “This is a critical time of year when we see an increase in people visiting casinos and it’s essential that minors are not among them.”
The operation reportedly will also ensure casino operators meet their legal obligations to prevent underage access by implementing rigorous ID checks, training staff and strengthening internal security measures.
Good to know: Excluded persons who enter or remain in a casino can face harsher penalties, such as fines up to AU$5,500, a 12-month prison sentence, or both
The operation follows several high-profile cases involving underage breaches. In one instance, a 17-year-old used fake identification to gain entry to a casino, spending over an hour gambling before being caught. The individual faced multiple fines and the casino operator was issued an AU$25,000 penalty by the NSW Independent Casino Commission.
The compliance effort aligns with broader regulatory initiatives by L&GNSW, including a recent crackdown on responsible gambling measures in licensed venues. Earlier in 2024, over 500 inspections were conducted to ensure compliance with new harm minimisation measures, such as mandatory staff training and the relocation of ATMs away from gaming areas.
The operation will continue through early 2025, ensuring casinos adhere to state regulations during the busy holiday season.
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