Victoria Gambling and Casino Control Commission is launching a review of the bingo rules and regulations in Australia.
The bingo review, announced today (6th June), will solicit opinions from the industry and community of Victoria. The VGCCC claims that this will help them to better understand the sector and find ways of strengthening industry and regulatory practices.
The Commission will examine whether or not the rules that govern bingo in Victoria today are still relevant. The Commission will examine the vulnerability of cash transactions to criminal activity and how much money is being used to fund community organizations.
According to the VGCCC, revenue from commercial bingo in Victoria generated AU$107m (PS56m/EUR65m/US$71m) in revenue in the 2023 financial year. The $61m generated by keno in the same time period is a far cry from the AU$107m (PS56m/EUR65m/US$71m) reported by the VGCCC.
Fran Thorn said that the landscape of commercial bingo has changed in recent years. The game is moving from paper-based games to digital enhancements that offer substantial jackpots.
This is especially important for at-risk groups such as seniors, First Nations communities, women and lower income individuals. It is especially important for at-risk populations such as women, seniors, First Nations, and low income individuals.
Thorn says that, despite the VGCCC’s regulatory oversight of operators who are not licensed and may be engaging in fraudulent activity, it continues to receive complaints and accusations. It will therefore seek opinions on ways to improve the rules and regulations.
Thorn stated, “It is a great opportunity to learn how bingo is changing and evolving in terms of technology.” We understand that bingo is a social outlet for many Victoria residents.
We want to reduce harm, understand risks and stop any behavior that threatens the integrity of and fairness in the game.
VGCCC invites all parties interested, including industry players and community organizations to participate in its inquiry.
Victoria changes the rules for online gambling accounts
This is the latest in Victoria’s efforts to regulate gambling.
The VGCCC announced in April that it would be modifying the rules for the online gambling industry. The VGCCC has also changed the way players see their losses and spending.
The changes are aimed at improving the way certain information about online gambling is presented to users. These changes include information about spending and net losses, which excludes free bets and bonuses.
In addition, the monthly statement of players now subtracts all bets from total payout. The licensees must also use simple English and avoid unnecessary jargon. They are required to limit their use of colour to red and black to show clearly the losses. Each monthly statement should also include a warning about the harms of gambling.
Operators who fail to comply with the rules could be penalized up to 60 units. Each non-compliant statement of activity is worth AU$11 539.
