Hotel licensee hit with hefty fine for allowing after-hours gambling

A Downing Centre Local Court magistrate convicted and fined the licensee of Markets Hotel on Tuesday, 8 April for allowing patrons to play gaming machines outside approved hours over three consecutive weekends in July 2023.

L&GNSW Acting Executive Director of Regulatory Operations Bernadette Beard said the fine sends a strong message that such violations will not be tolerated.

“This venue allowed 29 gaming machines to be operated between 3am and 6am on Saturday and Sunday mornings, breaching the shutdown rules,” Ms Beard said.

“These restrictions are in place to reduce the risks of gambling harm by limiting the time patrons can spend playing gaming machines. Ignoring these laws is not just irresponsible, it’s illegal.”

Under the Gaming Machines Act 2001 (NSW), venues cannot allow patrons to use gaming machines during designated shutdown periods.

L&GNSW conducts regular compliance checks to ensure that pubs and clubs adhere to regulations regarding gaming machine shutdown periods.

In November 2024, inspectors visited 138 venues across 61 local government areas in both metropolitan and regional NSW. The operation resulted in one penalty notice and three official cautions being issued to non-compliant venues.

With more inspections planned for the coming months, L&GNSW is committed to holding venues accountable and minimising gambling harm.