The State of Victoria has elected Suzy Neilan to serve as the new Chief Executive of the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC).
A figurehead in state affairs, Neilan will take leadership of the VGCCC on 1 April 2025, ending her four-year tenure as an Executive Director of Strategy at the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) of Victoria, which included a period as Interim CEO.
Neilan is recognised as an outstanding executive, with a proven track record in delivering legislative change programmes and large-scale technology projects within highly regulated environments.
Her experience includes providing regulatory oversight to projects at the Victorian Building Authority and leading the overhaul of technology systems at the former Department of Justice.
VGCCC Chairman, Chris O’Neill, endorsed Neilan’s appointment: “As the VGCCC enters the next phase of the programme of transformation we began three years ago, Suzy’s experience leading digital and technology transformation, and her deep understanding of education, enforcement and compliance will continue to ensure the Commission is well placed to meet future challenges and ensure the integrity, safety and fairness of the gambling industry.
“Suzy’s commitment to achieving regulatory outcomes that benefit Victorians makes her a strong leader to support the Commission and head the agency’s executive leadership team.”
O’Neill also expressed gratitude to Annette Kimmitt, who led the VGCCC since 2022 as the inaugural CEO: “Annette’s holistic vision and tenacious drive led the Commission’s transformation in its first years and, with strategic focus, determined how we would work with the industry to ensure that our mandate to regulate in the public interest would be met.
“On behalf of all at the VGCCC, I thank Annette for her exemplary service and dedication, and we wish her all the best for the future.”
TAB Contract comes into play
As of August 2024, the state of Victoria’s wagering licence for retail and leisure venues has been operated by Tabcorp’s TAB unit.
The 10-year licence (expiring in 2034) was awarded by the State executive to Tabcorp in December 2023, with the VGCCC serving as the contract guardian to ensure that safer gambling standards are met.
The contract had a troubled start, as the VGCCC imposed a record AU$4.6 million fine on Tabcorp after uncovering prior customer care liabilities. These failures involved systems that did not intervene when customers displayed observable gambling disorders.
Suzy Neilan: VGCCC
Joining the VGCCC, Neilan commented. : “I am excited by the opportunity to contribute to the VGCCC’s success and look forward to working with the dedicated and talented people at the VGCCC to make a positive difference for Victorian communities.
“The gambling sector plays a significant role in the lives of many Victorians, and I am committed to ensuring that the Commission continues to regulate with integrity, fairness and a focus on protecting consumers. Together with the team at VGCCC, I am confident we can strengthen industry standards and deliver outcomes that benefit all Victorians.”
Neilan’s appointment marks a significant step in strengthening the VGCCC’s role in regulating the gambling industry and ensuring the safety and fairness of gambling activities for all Victorians.
