Operator News

Australia – Victorian Commission fines Crown Melbourne $1m for junket failings

The Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation has fined Crown Melbourne $1m for failing to comply with regulatory requirements in relation to the management of junket operations

Over an extended period of time, Crown failed to implement robust processes to consider the ongoing probity of junket entities. This is the first time Crown has been fined the maximum penalty available to the Commission under the Casino Control Act 1991.

VCGLR Chairman Ross Kennedy said that fine reflected the seriousness of this matter. “Robust processes must be implemented to ensure the Casino remained free from criminal influence and exploitation,” he explained. “These are strict and legislated regulatory requirements, and this is an area where Crown repeatedly failed,” said Mr Kennedy.

This disciplinary action follows a Show Cause notice being issued to Crown in October last year. The VCGLR considered all relevant materials and information and afforded Crown the opportunity to present before the Commission at their request.

Helen Coonan, Crown’s Executive Chairman, said: “Crown continues to engage with the VCGLR and the Victorian Government in relation to its reform agenda.
These reforms and changes to our business are aimed at delivering the highest standards of governance and compliance as we restore public and regulatory confidence in our operations. As part of this reform agenda, Crown has already ceased dealing with all junket operators.”