with Spring racing carnival just around the corner Gambling and Casino Control Commission of Victoria (VGCCC) promised to keep a watchful eye on the bookies. The regulator vowed to take swift action if it identifies any violations.
VGCCC to watch the spring racing carnival
The Spring Racing Carnival is one of the largest horse racing events in the Australian state. It is an annual event that attracts many fans of horse racing and sports betting. As such, it’s no wonder that the carnival attracts a lot of illegal gambling. Additionally, many legal operators tend to covertly offer products that are in violation of state gambling laws.
As the event approaches, the VGCCC said it would ensure operators play by the rules. The authority warned that licensees should bear in mind that they must adhere to local regulations and, as a result, should avoid offering harmful betting products.
Also, the regulator reminded operators that they should not accept bets from people who are under the influence of alcohol or minors. The VGCCC added that it would closely monitor developments within the sector during the Spring Carnival and check whether gambling companies remain compliant. He also reminded operators to check their customers’ documents, as required by Victorian law.
Gaming facilities and machines will also be monitored, the regulator warned. Digital betting, according to the regulator, will be subject to the same scrutiny as retail betting.
The regulator will not hesitate to take action
Chief Executive Officer of VGCCC, Annette Kimmitt, warned that the authority’s inspectors will operate under a “zero tolerance” policy if they spot any willful violations. She noted that compliance is something expected of all Victoria licensees.
This spring racing season, we want to see industry participants meet their legal and social obligations and expect gaming operators to protect the community from the harm of gambling.
Annette Kimmitt, CEO, VGCCC
Kimmitt added that bookmakers and Tabcorp have been warned and should prepare for the season without trying to circumvent the rules, lest they face the consequences. The VGCCC Director General concluded that the authority “will not shy away” from imposing fines and other penalties.
This year’s edition of the Spring Racing Carnival begins on November 1 and will see the beloved horse racing event return to normal. For the past two years, the carnival took place without an audience, but now it will once again welcome fans of professional horse racing. Because of this, the VGCCC will be extra careful to ensure that its rules are followed.
