Crown Melbourne fined $1 million for failing junket regulations
Crown has been fined $1 million for failing to comply with regulations around junket operations in the state of Victoria.
The penalty, served specifically to Crown Melbourne Ltd, is the maximum possible after a Commission found the gaming giant did not adequately assess the conduct of junket operators and players.
Concerns arose after the release of the 800-page Bergin report found junket operations were connected to criminal influence and could have been used for money laundering.
The penalty, served specifically to Crown Melbourne Ltd, is the maximum possible after a Commission found
the gaming giant did not adequately assess the conduct of junket operators and players. (Joe Armao)
The fine was issued by the Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation (VCGLR), following a Commission that determined that Crown failed to comply with its regulatory obligations.
“That fine reflects the seriousness of this matter, and the fact that Crown’s failure to implement a robust process occurred over an extended period,” VCGLR Chairman Ross Kennedy.
“Robust processes must be implemented to ensure that Crown’s Melbourne casino remains free from criminal influence and exploitation. These are strict and legislated regulatory requirements, and this is an area where Crown has repeatedly failed.
In simple terms, junkets are arrangements between casinos and a group of gamblers – most often high rollers or VIP guests – in which junket operators will bring players to the casino in return for a commission.
In addition to the fine, the Commission issued a letter of censure to Crown in which it prohibits Crown from recommencing junket operations in Melbourne until it has proved it can conduct them in line with regulations.
It will also require Crown to report regularly to the Commission on the progress of a reform agenda Crown outlined to the Commission as part of its submissions in this matter.
Earlier today Crown Sydney was granted new liquor licences that will allow the gaming giant to serve alcohol in its bars and restaurants at its $2.2 billion Barangaroo casino until the end of October this year.
