Summary
- VGCCC penalizes regulator for violating consumer safety protocols
- The regulator has firmly reinforced its unwavering commitment to ensuring a safe gambling environment.
- This isn't the first time the watchdog has challenged bookmakers; they've repeatedly been found failing to meet their commitments to customers.
The Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) has taken decisive action against an online sportsbook in the state, targeting QuestBet. This intervention came after an investigation revealed that QuestBet accepted wagers from a customer who displayed clear signs of gambling-related distress, according to the VGCCC's findings.
QuestBet fined over failure to intervene in case of a single customer
In a striking blow, QuestBet has been slammed with an AU$80,000 fine, as VGCCC CEO Suzy Neilan expressed sharp criticism over their shortcomings. Our probe into QuestBet’s operations exposed a severe lack of safeguards for individuals at risk from gambling-related harm, she stated, emphasizing the vital importance of harm reduction for any operator. The VGCCC pointed out clear warning signs that QuestBet should not have ignored. Alarmingly, the gambler placed bets over 20 times between April and June 2023 and admitted to significant losses on six occasions. This, the VGCCC argued, was a blatant call for intervention that went unanswered. The customer lost approximately $15,000 within just two months, yet QuestBet failed to engage in mandatory responsible gambling strategies, the watchdog alleged. Furthermore, the VGCCC reminded all bookmakers of their duty to abide by the Victorian Bookmakers’ Association Responsible Gambling Code of Conduct, ensuring players are shielded from gambling-induced distress. Earlier in January, a similar hammer fell on VicBet with a heftier AU$130,000 fine due to two violations of their customer care responsibilities.
