A former Acting Deputy Commissioner of Victoria Police has been selected to lead the state’s casino and gambling regulator.
On Wednesday, December 4, the state government appointed Christopher O’Neill APM as the new chairperson of the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission.
A VGCCC commissioner since 2022, Mr O’Neill previously served with Victoria Police for 45 years, culminating in his appointment as Acting Deputy Commissioner in 2016, with responsibility for the regional and specialist operations and capability.
He received several honours throughout his policing career, including the Australian Police Medal, National Police Service Medal, National Emergency Medal, National Medal and Victoria Police Service Medal.
Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation Minister Melissa Horne congratulated Mr O’Neill on his appointment and said he would bring a wealth of expertise to the position.
“The gambling regulator has been significantly strengthened since it was re-established in 2022 and Mr O’Neill’s appointment will ensure continuity and the embedding of these important changes,” Ms Horne said.
Beginning on January 1, Mr O’Neill will replace the VGCCC’s inaugural chairperson Fran Thorn, who has been in the role since the regulator was established in 2022 following the Royal Commission into the Casino Operator and Licence.
“I thank Fran Thorn for her outstanding service to the Commission, and her dedication to reducing gambling harm and improving the integrity of the Victorian gambling sector,” said Ms Horne of the outgoing chairperson.
