Venues fined for Good Friday and ANZAC Day trading breaches

With Christmas rapidly approaching, now is the time for venues to ensure they know the trading restrictions that may apply to their venue ahead of 25 December, Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) CEO Suzy Neilan said.

‘The festive season is just around the corner, and we appreciate it is an extremely busy time for clubs and hotels. That is why it is so important to check your trading hours are compliant now.’

The warning comes as the VGCCC issues fines and censures totalling $58,000 to 12 clubs and hotels across Victoria for breaching permitted trading hours on days of significance earlier this year (Good Friday and ANZAC Day).

Permitted gaming trading hours vary for licensees on these days and are based on the liquor trading hours as defined in the individual liquor licence of each venue.

The VGCCC found that poker machines were in use at 12 venues during prohibited hours on Good Friday this year, while Kerang Bowling Club also breached restrictions on ANZAC Day. The Bridge Hotel in Mordialloc also breached ANZAC Day restrictions.

Nine venues received fines, and 3 others censured following the VGCCC’s investigations.

After a similar breach in 2024, Clayton RSL received the largest fine ($15,000) for allowing gaming activities outside permitted liquor licence hours on Good Friday, with poker machines in use after 11:30 pm, which resulted in a net turnover of $2,444.

‘Trading restrictions on days like Good Friday and ANZAC Day reflect the significance many people in the community place on these dates. It is important that we reflect community expectations surrounding these days and ensure that venues comply with the law,’ Ms Neilan said.

‘We’re committed to continuing to work with industry to ensure that Victoria’s gambling industry is fair for all – including the operators, so we are encouraging all venues to better understand their trading hour obligations on days of significance,’ Ms Neilan said.

Last year, the VGCCC fined 11 venues a total of $180,000 for similar breaches.

The Reasons for Decision are available on the enforcement actions webpage.

Additional information:

Anyone with concerns about a gambling provider’s behaviour can lodge a complaint or tip-off with the VGCCC.

Anyone negatively affected by their own or someone else’s gambling is encouraged to call the 24/7 Gambler’s Helpline on 1800 858 858 for free and confidential support.