Tabcorp and the Preston Hotel could be hit with combined penalties of up to A$325,409 after allegedly allowing a minor to access electronic betting terminals.

The Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission revealed it has charged Tabcorp and the property in question over a 16-year-old’s access to – and placing of bets – on gaming machines on six occasions in May and September last year.

The Preston Hotel will face a total of 15 charges, the VGCCC said, which could attract a maximum fine of 1,200 penalty units, which would translate to $221,904.

The regulator said Tabcorp is facing eight charges, which could amount to a maximum fine of 560 penalty points, or $103,505.

VGCCC gambling director, Glorija Kuzman, said the charges were “deeply concerning” and that minors being allowed to gamble is “one of the most serious harms.”

She noted all gambling operators, including venues and the holders of statewide licences, “have an irrefutable legal requirement to do everything they can to stop children from gambling.”

“All gaming venues must ensure they do not accept a bet from a minor and ask for identification from anyone they suspect could be underage,” she concluded.

“While electronic betting terminals are legal gambling products, they should not be easy for minors to access and use. Venue operators and Tabcorp are responsible for ensuring they are appropriately supervised at all times.”

The VGCCC said investigations are ongoing into additional venues and may result in further charges.