VGCCC fines Lara venue for trading hours breach

The regulator has issued an AU$15,000 fine after finding gaming machines in use outside permitted hours.

Australia.- The Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) has fined the Lara Sporting Club AU$15,000 (US$10,490) after gaming machines were found to be in use outside permitted hours. Multiple machines were found to be in use outside of licensed hours on May 18, 2025, with turnover exceeding AU$10,000 (US$7,000).

The Gambling Regulation Act (2003) requires venues to operate gaming rooms within specific hours and to adhere to a mandatory shutdown period between 4am and 10am each day. Permitted hours for gaming are in line with the liquor trading hours defined in each venue’s liquor licence. Lara Sporting Club’s permitted hours are between midnight and 1am, and between 10am and 11.30pm, excluding ANZAC Day.

This is the second time the venue has been fined for trading hour breaches. A AU$10,000 fine was issued in 2025 for breaches on Good Friday. With Good Friday and ANZAC Day approaching, the VGCCC is also encouraging venues to make sure they know their licensed hours. Last year, 11 venues were fined a total of AU$180,000 (US$125,882) for trading hour breaches on these dates.

Suzy Neilan, VGCCC CEO, said: “These are measures designed to safeguard patrons and minimise gambling harm. It’s imperative that venues abide by their licensed hours and demonstrate responsibility in their care for patrons.

“As this is not the first time the venue has breached its permitted hours, it is appropriate to impose a penalty that reflects the seriousness of the conduct and the need for both specific and general deterrence.”

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The regulator has issued an AU$15,000 fine after finding gaming machines in use outside permitted hours. Australia.- The Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) has fined the Lara Sporting Club AU$15,000 (US$10,490) after gaming machines were found to be in use outside permitted hours. Multiple machines were found to be in use outside of…