VGCCC fines ALH $480,000 for operating EGMs outside permitted hours

The Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) has issued an AU$480，000 (US$325，445) fine to the Australian Leisure and Hospitality Group (ALH). 

The fine arose due to the operation of electronic gaming machines (EGMs) at eight of ALH’s venues outside of nominated trading hours， failing to observe mandatory shutdown hours. 

It is a requirement that gaming venues must shut down for four hours after every 20 hours of gaming， and that they must comply with the specific hours nominated to operate EGMs. 

A fine of AU$420，000 was issued for these failings between 15 February 2023 and 21 April 2023 at seven of ALH’s venues. 

Meanwhile，Play Casino Online a further fine of AU$60，000 was issued for operating EGM’s outside of nominated trading hours and failure to observe mandatory shutdown periods on 25 May 2023 at the Boundary Taverner. 

VGCCC CEO Annette Kimmitt said: “We expect all venue operators to provide gambling services responsibility and to observe the trading hours for their electronic gaming machines. 

“Ensuring patrons take breaks and are not exposed to extended， continuous periods of play are critical to the responsible service of gambling. 

“The VGCCC will continue to monitor gaming machine operations to ensure our expectations are being met.” 

In other news related to Australia， the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has issued warnings to several operators for breaching gambling rules.