The Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) has announced a substantial penalty of AUD 100,000 ($65,100) against MintBet—the betting company that found itself in breach of the Responsible Gambling Code of Conduct. The commission has accused the operator of repeatedly disregarding the limitations of this code, allowing gamblers to play uninterrupted for hours on end.
In a timeframe of close to 50 hours, the particular customer involved spent almost 35 hours engrossed in gambling activities. As per the VGCCC’s findings, the gambler made an alarming total of 327 bets, accumulating a loss of AUD 31,149 ($20,274).
The VGCCC asserts that the customer showed apparent signs of potential gambling addiction and clear indicators of distress. MintBet, however, did not take appropriate action and continued to accept bets from the distressed player. It wasn’t until the player self-identified their gambling problem that the operator suspended further betting activities for the individual.
The Responsible Gambling Code of Conduct prescribes that operators should put in place mechanisms that can prevent gamblers at risk from overspending or losing control over their gambling habits. MintBet, despite having such safeguards, failed to implement them effectively—a clear contravention of the Code.
MintBet is now required to pay the fine and also communicate the steps it intends to take to rectify their systems for the VGCCC’s review. Based on MintBet’s proposed improvements, the commission will decide if additional measures are necessary.
Victorian Operator’s Violation – A Reminder for All, Says VGCCC
The deputy chief executive officer of the VGCCC, Scott May, mentioned that the AUD 100,000 fine should serve as a stern reminder to all betting operators of their responsibility in the industry. He stressed on the significance of adhering to their Responsible Gambling Codes of Conduct to protect customers susceptible to addictive gambling behavior.
May emphasized that while accepting online bets, gambling operators need to remain watchful and step in whenever signs of distress surface.
Extended periods of gambling are strong indications that suggest players may be struggling with gambling addiction. Any gambling provider falling short on their responsible gambling code of conduct will face severe repercussions. Such disregard is simply unacceptable.
– Scott May, deputy CEO, VGCCC
In the meanwhile, the VGCCC urges its players to make use of the safe gambling resources at their disposal. They pointed out that BetStop is a helpful platform for those worried about losing control over their gambling habit.
The commission has also encouraged gamblers who feel a betting provider is failing to adhere to their responsible gambling commitments to report the same to the VGCCC.
Separately, a Victorian court recently convicted a manager who, fighting a gambling addiction, embezzled millions.
