The Victorian State Government has awarded non-exclusive Keno licenses to Tabcorp and Lottoland under a new two-license model that it says will provide consumers with greater choice.
The licenses, which come into effect on 15 April 2022, allow the two companies to provide Keno online for the first time, as well as through traditional retail outlets – backed by harm minimization and consumer protection measures. They will replace the current 10-year, retail-only license held by Tabcorp since 2012.
The government said the new model allows distributor venues to benefit from competition and innovation by removing the single licensee monopoly. Tabcorp and Lottoland will both be authorized to conduct and distribute the game of Keno in eligible hotels, clubs, wagering outlets and electronically throughout Victoria.
“The industry has changed significantly since 2012, with new technologies and new online market entrants, so we have updated the Keno licence to allow for a more modern approach,” said Minister for Consumer Affairs, Gaming and Liquor Regulation, Melissa Horne.
“These changes will benefit businesses, while also ensuring stronger harm minimization and consumer protection measures are in place so those who play Keno in Victoria can gamble responsibly.”
Implementation of a new model follows a review into the future of Keno in Victoria, which included consultation with industry, community and government stakeholders.
Under the changes, Minister Horne has the ability to issue harm minimization directions to both Victorian and interstate Keno game providers when providing Keno to people in Victoria.
The directions will focus on key areas such as incentives, direct marketing, account closure, deposit limits, activity statements, responsible gambling messaging and maximum draw frequency, the government said.
RelatedPosts
