Australia to Revise Bingo Regulations

The Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) in Australia has announced a comprehensive review of the current Bingo rules. The aim is to gain a deeper understanding of the sector's challenges and to explore ways to enhance regulatory and industry practices. This review will focus on several key areas, including the practicality of the existing regulations, the safety of cash transactions from a criminal activity perspective, and the recovery of gambling profits.

According to the VGCCC, commercial bingo in Victoria generated $71 million in revenue in the 2023 financial year. The landscape of commercial bingo has evolved, transitioning from traditional paper games to electronic versions featuring significant jackpots. "The commercial bingo landscape has modernized in recent years as it moves away from the traditional paper game to an electronic version with significant jackpots,” stated Commission Chair Fran Thorne.

Given these changes, it is crucial for Australian officials to assess and address issues related to fairness, integrity, and potential harm associated with gambling. This is particularly important for vulnerable groups such as older people, Indigenous communities, women, and low-income individuals.

The VGCCC has expressed a commitment to understanding the risks, reducing potential harm, and eliminating any behaviors that could compromise the integrity and fairness of the game. The Commission is inviting all stakeholders, including customers, gaming industry representatives, and community organizations, to participate in this investigation. This collaborative approach aims to ensure that the revised regulations will support a safer and more equitable gaming environment.