In a bid to enhance regulatory compliance and safeguard against underage gambling and drinking, New South Wales (NSW) is launching a comprehensive crackdown that imposes substantial penalties on minors found violating casino laws. The Liquor & Gaming NSW regulatory authority has announced stringent measures, including bans of at least 12 months and fines of AU$2,200 (US$1,600), targeting minors engaged in illicit activities in casinos and associated hospitality venues.
Key Measures and Penalties:
Ban and Fines for Minors: Minors discovered engaging in illegal gambling or drinking within NSW casinos or associated venues will face bans of at least 12 months. Additionally, they will be subjected to fines amounting to AU$2,200 per offense.
Joint Surveillance: Casino security personnel, in collaboration with inspectors from Liquor & Gaming NSW, will intensify monitoring activities, particularly during the upcoming holiday period. The focus is on detecting minors entering casinos or using fraudulent evidence of age.
Legislative Framework: NSW laws explicitly prohibit individuals under the age of 18 from entering casinos or presenting false proof of age, including fake IDs. The consumption or attempted purchase of alcohol by minors is also strictly forbidden.
Financial Penalties: The financial penalties for minors found in violation of these laws underscore the severity of the crackdown. Fines of AU$2,200 per offense serve as a deterrent against underage individuals attempting to participate in activities reserved for adults.
Exclusion and Future Entry Restrictions: Minors caught within a casino may face exclusion from re-entering until their 19th birthday. This restriction ensures that individuals will not be able to visit the casino for at least a year after turning 18. Simultaneously, they may incur fines as part of the enforcement actions.
Confiscation of Winnings: Minors discovered engaging in illegal activities will not be allowed to retain any winnings from gambling, reinforcing the zero-tolerance approach to underage gambling.
Regulatory Oversight and Operator Obligations:
Liquor & Gaming NSW has reminded casino operators of their responsibilities to prevent minors’ entry, emphasizing the need for rigorous ID checks by casino staff. Operators failing to adhere to these obligations may face enforcement actions.
The robust measures introduced by NSW underscore the commitment to maintaining the integrity of the gaming and hospitality industry, particularly concerning underage individuals. The combination of stringent penalties, bans, and reinforced operator obligations sends a clear message about the zero-tolerance approach to illegal activities involving minors within the casino environment.