The Victorian gaming authority has deemed Crown Resorts unsuitable to retain its Melbourne casino license, but the company will be permitted to continue operations under rigorous supervision.
A government inquiry determined that Crown participated in “unlawful, deceptive, immoral, and predatory” practices, rendering it inappropriate to manage the casino. Nevertheless, rather than immediately revoking the license, the inquiry suggested establishing a specialized manager role to oversee the casino’s activities. This overseer will essentially monitor Crown for a two-year period as it implements substantial reforms to rectify its conduct.
The probe exposed a history of misconduct, encompassing breaches of Australian and global regulations, frequently with the awareness of high-ranking officials. The inquiry concluded that the magnitude of these problems allowed for “no alternative determination” but to declare Crown unfit to possess a casino license.
The administration of Victoria has embraced the Royal Commission’s conclusions and pledged to adopt a more “forward-leaning” approach in enacting the primary suggestions. To avert comparable incidents in the future, the government is instituting “stricter regulations for gaming establishment proprietors and enhanced supervision.”
The Casino and Gambling Legislation Amendment Act of 2021, already in law, initiates the “essential reforms required to guarantee gaming establishments function with utmost probity.”
Crown Resorts stated, via a communiqué, that they are analyzing the report and the Victorian government’s response. They intend to engage in a “cooperative and productive” discourse with the Victorian government regarding the discoveries and proposals.
