The Victorian regulator has penalised a dozen venues for breaching trading restrictions, and as Christmas approaches suggests operators ensure they know what restrictions may apply to their venue.
“The festive season is just around the corner, and we appreciate it is an extremely busy time for clubs and hotels. That is why it is so important to check your trading hours are compliant now,” offers Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) CEO Suzy Neilan.
This warning follows the Commission issuing fines and formal disciplinary measures to 12 clubs and hotels across the state for breaching permitted trading hours on days of significance (Good Friday and ANZAC Day) in 2025.
The liquor licence of each venue dictates its permitted gaming trading hours on these days, based on the liquor trading hours. Restrictions on days of significance arise from the gravity people throughout the community place on them.
“It is important that we reflect community expectations surrounding these days and ensure that venues comply with the law,” added Neilan.
An investigation found poker machines were in operation on Good Friday during prohibited hours at 12 venues, including Kerang Bowling Club, which also breached restrictions on ANZAC Day, along with the Bridge Hotel in Mordialloc.
This resulted in nine venues receiving fines, totalling $58k, while three more received a censure, which is a written reprimand recorded against the licensee’s compliance history that may be taken into account in the case of future breaches.
Further details of the VGCCC’s disciplinary action against the venues are available on its website.
In 2024 the VGCCC fined 11 venues a total of $180k for similar breaches, including what was the largest fine ($15k) to Clayton RSL for allowing gaming activities on Good Friday outside permitted liquor licence hours. The club operated the gaming room after 11:30 pm, producing net turnover of $2,444.
The VGCCC states it is committed to ensuring the gambling industry is fair for all – including operators.
It continues to work with industry and ahead of 25 December encourages all venues to be sure they understand their individual trading hour obligations.
