The VenueNet Computer is a stylish touch screen internet enabled computer that allows access to a variety of products and services offered on the websites of VenueNet’s supplier partners. The Australian company markets the computer to pubs and clubs under the slogan ‘Bringing People, Products and Profits To Your Business’, offering a source of revenue in the form of commissions from the transactions of customers. “Your Customers will be able to buy a lottery entry, a seat to the footy, top up a mobile account, access the website of their corporate bookmaker, pay a bill, all without leaving the pub.”

Headquartered in Melbourne, Victoria, VenueNet Pty Ltd is presently in a legal battle with the Victorian Commission for Gambling Regulation. In August 2009 the Commission seized a computer from the Rising Sun Hotel in South Melbourne, claiming it was an illegal betting device. VenueNet has an agreement with Sportsbet to provide, along with other services, access to Sportsbet’s online betting service. So far no prosecution has been launched against the company and VenueNet wants a court order for the return of the computer. The case is due to be heard tomorrow but there are doubts that the hearing will take place as last Friday the Commission lodged an appeal with the state’s Supreme Court.

Makers of the hard drive and equipment used in the computer kiosks provided by VenueNet have given sworn statements saying the machine is no different to other computer kiosks they supply, for example to airports, and the computer does not in itself accept or record bets. Tabcorp holds the wagering licence with exclusive retail rights in pubs and clubs and last year complained to the Commission about the VenueNet computers. Victoria is preparing to award its new wagering licence in 2012 and the touch screen Internet enabled computers will prove a headache for the government until the issue is clarified through the courts.

In July 2009 ‘The Australian Financial Review’ printed an article under the title ‘Tab’s Lose Ground in Technology Stakes’. The article stated: “Technology is making it harder and harder for Tabcorp and Tatts Group to protect the value of their wagering licences. The mainly white-collar patrons of the Rising Sun Hotel in the back streets of South Melbourne are playing their part in potentially seismic shifts in the wagering industry.”

The Victorian Commission for Gambling Regulation is said to be gathering information and seeking access to more VenueNet material before laying charges. VenueNet is awaiting a decision from the Victorian court before it attempts to launch its computers in other Australian states and says the delay in prosecuting the case is costing the company millions of dollars. A positive outcome in Victoria could make the installation of the computer kiosks in other states a simpler process but battle has yet to commence. (E-04.26.10)

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