The Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) has unveiled its Annual Plan for 2025–26, setting the tone for a year focused on tackling gambling-related harm, bolstering regulatory reform, and reinforcing community confidence through data-driven oversight.

Now entering its fourth year as an independent body, the Commission is sharpening its approach to ensure all forms of gambling in Victoria remain fair, safe, and free from criminal exploitation. The regulator’s latest plan underscores an evolution toward smarter, intelligence-led supervision and stronger partnerships across government, industry, and law enforcement.

VGCCC Chief Executive Officer Suzy Neilan said the new agenda embodies the Commission’s drive to innovate and protect community wellbeing. “This year’s plan reflects our ambition to be bold, intelligence-led, data-driven, and deeply connected to the communities we serve,” Neilan stated in the official press release. “We’re evolving how we regulate, using smarter tools, stronger partnerships, and a sharper focus on harm minimization to protect Victorians.”

Strengthening Prevention and Early Intervention

Central to the 2025–26 plan is a strengthened focus on early intervention and harm prevention. The VGCCC aims to identify risky gambling behavior before it escalates, safeguard minors and self-excluded individuals, and raise the bar for responsible advertising across both digital and traditional platforms.

The Commission’s efforts align with the Victorian Government’s Statement of Expectations, which calls on regulators to deliver best-practice governance that champions inclusion, transparency, and community safety. The VGCCC will also continue to collaborate closely with law enforcement agencies to combat money laundering and criminal infiltration within the gambling industry.

In February 2025, the VGCCC’s crackdown on underage gambling led to 14 prosecutions, 98 charges, and fines totaling AU$499,000 (US$317,598)—a reflection of the regulator’s heightened vigilance in protecting vulnerable players.

Major Initiatives and Modernization Projects

A suite of long-term initiatives underpins the Commission’s strategy for 2025–26. These include a five-year public awareness campaign designed to educate Victorians about the risks of gambling and promote responsible play.

To modernize compliance systems, the VGCCC will implement digital infrastructure upgrades that reduce red tape and improve responsiveness. The agency will also support the rollout of mandatory carded play and pre-commitment systems, helping players set limits and maintain control over their gambling activities.

Neilan explained that this strategic direction goes beyond traditional regulation. “We’re not just regulating, we’re modernizing how regulation is done,” she said. “By aligning our work with the Statement of Expectations and our core priorities, we’re making sure our efforts are proactive, transparent, and focused on long-term community benefit.”

Building Community Trust Through Smarter Oversight

The VGCCC’s plan highlights a clear transition toward intelligence-led and technology-enhanced oversight. Through predictive analytics and data insights, the regulator aims to detect emerging risks faster and respond more effectively.

Three overarching priorities will guide the Commission’s work throughout the year:

  • Modernising digital systems to enhance efficiency and service delivery.
  • Strengthening intelligence-based regulation to improve risk detection and enforcement.
  • Expanding harm reduction efforts through education, engagement, and policy reform.

By combining regulatory innovation with community engagement, the VGCCC seeks to establish a more responsive, forward-looking framework that protects consumers while holding operators accountable.