Victoria Archives

In an effort to combat money laundering and gambling-related harm, the Victorian government has announced comprehensive regulations aimed at poker machines. The Gambling Legislation Amendment (Precommitment and Carded Play) Bill 2024 brought about these modifications, which established new standards for poker machine operations throughout the state. Key Changes in Gambling Regulations Reducing the maximum cash load for poker machines from AUD 1,000 to AUD 100 is a key component of the reforms. This cap, which is higher than the AUD 500 cap in New South Wales, highlights Victoria's strong position. Additionally, the law requires players to set loss limits and requires the use of player cards. Although users can set their own restrictions, AUD 50 will be the default, which was decided upon earlier this year with input from the Greens. The implementation will follow a phased approach, starting with a pilot program in mid-2025 across 40 venues. By 2027, all poker machines statewide must integrate the carded play system. Gaming Minister Melissa Horne highlighted the importance of this gradual rollout. “We’re making sure that we get that technology piece right so that it’s easy for people to sign up to,” she explained. Additionally, new machines approved after December 2025 must feature a minimum spin rate of three seconds per game, slowing play by 40%. Gaming areas in pubs and clubs will also face operating restrictions, closing from 4 a.m. to 10 a.m., though Crown Melbourne is exempt. Crown Melbourne, already using mandatory carded play after a 2021 royal commission, remains under close scrutiny. Despite findings of unethical conduct, the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) allowed the casino to retain its license earlier this year. The reforms come amid mounting concerns over gambling losses in Victoria, which exceed AUD 3 billion annually. These losses disproportionately affect lower-income communities, a point emphasized by Horne. “Less than 10% of the population plays poker machines, but they’re losing more than ever before,” she said. Prominent advocate Tim Costello welcomed the reforms, calling them “long overdue.” He added, “Mandatory carded play was recommended by the productivity commission in 1999 and 2010 but always defeated by the power of the predatory pokies industry.” By implementing these measures, Victoria positions itself as a leader in Australian gambling reform, stepping ahead of other states like Tasmania that have delayed similar changes.

Victoria

Victoria Introduces Stricter Gambling Laws to Combat Harm and Money Laundering

Victoria Implements Ban on Betting Involving Minors