The Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) has ordered Tabcorp to make the majority of its Electronic Betting Terminals (EBTs) in the state cashless in order to limit their use by minors.
According to a VGCCC statement, the move came as a result of repeated instances of minors accessing EBTs and pokies to place wagers and play casino games. The directive means that any machine that is not within five meters of a counter and in direct line of sight of counter staff must be converted to cashless-only wagering.
VGCCC Orders Tabcorp to Make 70% of Gambling Terminals CashlessCashless terminals can only be used by customers who have bought a valid voucher from the venue’s staff. Staff must check a valid ID if the customer appears to be under the age of 25.
The VGCCC has also directed Tabcorp to initiate a mystery shopper-style program that would ensure that venues are carrying out the correct ID checks and have implemented the cashless betting system on required machines. Venues that do not comply must be penalized and warned by Tabcorp with repeated breaches leading to a termination of agreements.
VGCCC Orders Tabcorp to Make 70% of Gambling Terminals Cashless VGCCC Orders Tabcorp to Make 70% of Gambling Terminals CashlessThese stronger identity checks not only represent an additional barrier to allowing children to gamble, but will also help to prevent money laundering. The VGCCC will actively monitor these safeguards to reduce harm, and venues should take note and act to uphold their duty to care for the community.”