HRV Responsible Wagering Code of Practice
Introduction
Harness Racing Victoria (HRV) controls, regulates and promotes the sport of harness racing in Victoria. Our Mission Statement is:
To develop a vibrant Harness Racing Industry which promotes participation, integrity and racing excellence, grows wagering and maximises returns to its stakeholders.
We recognise that wagering is an important part of our business. We also recognise the importance of promoting Responsible Wagering practices.
This Code of Practice has been developed by HRV in response to a request from Australia's Racing Ministers, who recently adopted National Guidelines for Responsible Wagering Practices.
By developing this Code of Practice, HRV seeks to ensure that all of its employees and all Committee members and employees of Victorian Harness Racing Clubs (the Clubs) registered by HRV are aware of and promote Responsible Wagering practices.
Application
This Code of Practice applies to all employees of HRV and all Committee members and employees of the Clubs. It is expected that each Club will adopt this Code of Practice.
Definitions
HRV and the Clubs endorse the following definitions, as stated in the National Guidelines for Responsible Wagering Practices:
Wagering: Placing a bet on the outcome of racing, sport or other events covered by totalisators or licensed bookmakers.
Responsible Wagering: Responsible wagering occurs within a regulated environment where the potential for harm is minimised and people make informed decisions about their participation in wagering. Responsible wagering occurs as a result of the collective actions and shared ownership by individuals, communities the wagering industry and Government, to achieve outcomes that are socially responsible and responsive to community concerns and is committed to protecting the integrity and image of the wagering product.
Problem Wagering: Problem wagering exists when wagering results in a range of adverse consequences where:
- the safety and well-being of wagering customers and/or their families and friends are placed at risk; and
- negative impacts extend to the broader community.
Statement of Principle
HRV and the Clubs are committed to promoting Responsible Wagering and to minimising Problem Wagering in carrying out our functions.
Victorian Wagering Operators
HRV does not conduct wagering operations. Instead, it provides the product which is the subject of the wagering activity.
Wagering in Victoria is conducted by TABCORP Holdings Pty Ltd (TABCORP) and bookmakers registered under Part IV of the Racing Act 1958.
HRV is keen to ensure that the wagering operators carry out their roles in accordance with Responsible Wagering principles.
This Code of Practice is designed to complement, and to be read in conjunction with, the Responsible Wagering Codes of Practice adopted by TABCORP and the Victorian Bookmakers' Association. To the extent possible, HRV will monitor the wagering operators' compliance with their Codes of Practice.
Informed choice
It is essential that consumers are provided with the information required to make considered and informed decisions in relation to wagering products.
This includes being aware of how each betting product operates and what the chances of winning are when a bet is placed.
To the extent possible, HRV and the Clubs will ensure that consumers are provided with all necessary information by TABCORP and bookmakers operating on course to make an informed choice as to whether or not to place a bet.
HRV and the Clubs will at all times endeavour to ensure that information relating to the horses participating in each race is accurate.
HRV and the Clubs will ensure that rules pertaining to betting are readily available for consumers to access. Any rules which are drafted by HRV will be in plain English.
Access to information about problem gambling
It is important that consumers can access information about services and procedures available for people experiencing wagering related problems.
HRV and the Clubs will make available information advising consumers of the potential risks associated with Problem Wagering including displaying posters containing Responsible Wagering messages.
Clubs will also endeavour to ensure there is a suitably trained member of staff on course at all race meetings to professionally handle any queries relating to Problem Wagering. This will include being able to arrange access to gambling support services.
Responsible Advertising and Promotion
HRV and the Clubs will aim to ensure that any advertising which is undertaken in respect of the harness racing product is conducted in a responsible manner.
Advertising shall not be misleading or deceptive, particularly in relation to winning.
Any advertising which specifically focuses on wagering, will be in good taste and will not involve or encourage minors or vulnerable or disadvantaged groups.
HRV and the Clubs will at all times seek to comply with the Advertising Code of Ethics, as adopted by the Australian Association of National Advertisers.
Training of Personnel
HRV and the Clubs will seek to ensure that all employees including those employed casually or part time during the holding of a race meeting are properly trained to deliver the responsible provision of wagering.
This Code of Practice will be made available to all employees and will also be displayed on HRV's website.
It is recognised that the Codes of Practice of both TABCORP and the Victorian Bookmakers' Association commit to ensuring that their employees are fully trained in the responsible provision of wagering services.
HRV and the Clubs will adopt guidelines regarding staff gambling and will ensure that such guidelines are followed.
Monitoring and assessment of this Code of Practice
This Code of Practice will be regularly reviewed. All employees of HRV and the Clubs will be encouraged to provide feedback on this Code and to make any suggestions to improve its application.
HRV and the Clubs will continue to liaise with the Government and the wagering operators to ensure that wagering within the harness racing industry is conducted responsibly.
Complaints or Queries
HRV and the Clubs will put in place proper mechanisms to ensure any complaints arising out of or relating to Responsible Wagering matters or initiatives are efficiently and competently addressed.
Any queries regarding this Code of Practice can be addressed to the Chief Executive of HRV or the Chief Executive of the particular Club.
