Venue manager charged for failing to identify problem gambler

A gambling venue manager in New Zealand has become the first person in the country to be charged with failing to identify a problem gambler, local media reports.

Under the country’s Gambling Act, staff at venues are required to take all reasonable steps to identify potential problem gamblers and to offer help.

If found guilty, the manager could be fined up to $5,000 and could receive a criminal conviction that would bar the person from being directly involved in gambling business in the future.

Department of Internal Affairs gambling group director Chris Thornborough said there was "no excuse" for failing to identify problem gamblers.

"Venues have a legal responsibility to look after their gambling patrons, just like they do when serving alcohol," he said.

"Everyone working in gambling venues across New Zealand needs to take their harm minimisation role seriously."

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