Victoria tribunal upholds fine against OkeBet

The VCAT stated that some self-excluded persons experienced harm, including severe mental distress, after receiving OkeBet’s marketing material.

Australia.- The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) has ruled in favor of the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) in its case against OkeBet. It found that the Australia-based online bookmaker violated state gambling laws by promoting its services to self-excluded players and providing banned incentives through community sports clubs.

The tribunal’s decision supports the regulator’s September 2024 decision to impose an AU$100,000 (US$69,953) fine on OkeBet and formally censured the operator for violating the Victorian Gambling Regulation Act 2003 (Vic), which mandates that promotions are not directed at self-excluded individuals.

The VCAT said some self-excluded persons experienced harm, including severe mental distress, after receiving OkeBet’s marketing material.

VGCCC chief executive Suzy Neilan said the ruling underscored the importance of protecting community organisations from being used for gambling marketing. She said local football and netball clubs play a central role in their communities and should not be used to promote gambling, particularly when the promotions involve unlawful inducements.

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The VCAT stated that some self-excluded persons experienced harm, including severe mental distress, after receiving OkeBet’s marketing material. Australia.- The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) has ruled in favor of the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) in its case against OkeBet. It found that the Australia-based online bookmaker violated state gambling laws…