Australia

Hotel licensee fined for forcing patrons to exit through gaming room

Published

12 months ago

June 26, 2024

Adrienn Sarkany

Reading Time: < 1 minute

Requiring patrons to walk through a gaming room to leave a south Sydney hotel has seen its licensee prosecuted, convicted, and fined.

Mortdale Hotel licensee Paul Whitehead pleaded guilty to breaching the Gaming Machines Act 2001 in Downing Centre Local Court on Tuesday 18 June, following an investigation by Liquor & Gaming NSW.

Liquor & Gaming NSW inspectors conducting compliance checks at the hotel on 18 August 2023 found the main bar’s exit door was locked and the only way to leave the hotel was through the gaming room.

Gaming legislation requires that patrons must not be compelled to pass through a gaming room in order to enter or leave a venue, or to gain access to another area.

Liquor & Gaming NSW Executive Director Regulatory Operations Jane Lin said it was a serious breach of the state’s gaming laws.

“These restrictions are in place to reduce the risks of gambling harm,” Ms Lin said.

“Apart from breaking the law, the licensee put patrons at potential risk of harm by compelling them to walk through the gaming room to leave the venue.

“As this case shows, licensees who fail to abide by gaming machine regulations can expect to be caught and prosecuted.”

Related Topics:Hotel Liquor & Gaming NSW

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Adrienn Sarkany

Hello there! I'm a 21-year-old university student majoring in Finnish and Korean Language and Literature. I have a deep passion for art and a profound connection to the natural world. My journey through life has been a colorful one, driven by my love for creativity, music, and the wonders of the great outdoors. As a dedicated student, I've already earned a degree in Classic Cantos, a testament to my appreciation for the timeless beauty of classical music. Beyond the classroom, my artistic spirit thrives through my love for painting and drawing. These creative outlets allow me to express my thoughts and emotions, transforming blank canvases into vibrant stories. My interests go far beyond music and art. Singing, playing the piano, and exploring new melodies are integral parts of my life, providing me with both solace and exhilaration. When I'm not immersed in the world of art and music, I find solace in nature's embrace. My heart is drawn to animals and the serene beauty of the natural world, fueling my desire to protect and preserve our precious environment.