Marking the start of Victoria’s new regulator

As detailed in our Annual Report 2021-22, the past year has been one of significant change – with the VGCCC established on 1 January 2022 to prepare to focus solely on gambling activities and a six-month transition away from liquor regulation culminating in a separation of liquor and gambling regulation in Victoria.

While operational activities continued to be impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, in 2021–22 we:

• assessed 7,410 gambling licence applications
• undertook 849 suitability assessments of gambling participants involved in the Melbourne casino, gaming and racing industries
• conducted 917 gambling inspections when COVID-19 restrictions were lifted and venues were open
• undertook 615 gaming revenue, operational and financial audits to check operator, product and system compliance
• prosecuted two bingo operators and a wagering service provider for breaches of gambling laws.

Additionally, we used our new powers to fine Crown Melbourne $80 million for its China Union Pay scheme where it facilitated the illegal transfer of funds from China for patrons to gamble with at the Melbourne casino.

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VGCCC CEO, Annette Kimmitt said the gambling industry should be paying attention.

“To our knowledge this is the largest fine ever levied against a casino in the world. This sends a very clear message to Crown and to the whole industry that we will not tolerate illegal activity.

“We have stronger powers and a sharper focus on creating a gambling industry that has integrity, and is safe and fair for all.”

As liquor regulation formally moved to the Victorian Liquor Commission on 1 July 2022, our annual report also details our work to support licensees through:

• the separation of gambling and liquor regulation
• the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic
• significant changes to the laws under which they operate.