In a significant move, the Victoria Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) has slapped Crown Resorts with a AU$2 million fine for breaching state gambling regulations. This penalty comes in response to the casino operator’s failure to prevent 242 self-excluded gamblers from accessing its Melbourne gaming floor, raising serious concerns about the enforcement of responsible gambling measures.
Breaches of Self-Exclusion Protocols
Self-exclusion is a critical harm prevention initiative designed to protect individuals who recognize their gambling issues. By law, self-excluded patrons are prohibited from entering gambling premises, and it is the responsibility of operators like Crown Resorts to enforce these restrictions diligently.
The VGCCC found that Crown Resorts had significant deficiencies in its systems, allowing these individuals to access the casino. Fran Thorn, Chair of the VGCCC, emphasized the importance of trust in the gambling industry, stating, “Those who self-exclude must be able to trust that gambling providers will take all reasonable steps to enforce their decision.”
- Key Points:
- 242 self-excluded gamblers accessed Crown Resorts.
- The casino failed to enforce self-exclusion protocols.
- The breaches were attributed to system failures, not malicious intent.
Thorn’s comments highlight the serious implications of these breaches, which not only jeopardize the well-being of vulnerable individuals but also undermine the integrity of the gambling industry as a whole.
Crown Resorts’ Response and Future Actions
In addition to the financial penalty, Crown Resorts is required to hire independent experts to assess its systems and implement their recommendations. This move is aimed at ensuring that self-excluded gamblers are effectively barred from entering the casino.
Crown Resorts, which is now owned by Blackstone Group following a high-profile scandal involving money laundering, has been under intense scrutiny. The VGCCC has expressed its support for the company’s reform efforts, particularly in light of the recommendations from the Finkelstein Royal Commission, which called for significant changes in gambling laws across Victoria and Australia.
- Crown Resorts’ Obligations:
- Hire independent experts for system evaluation.
- Implement recommendations to prevent access for self-excluded gamblers.
- Commit to ongoing improvements in technology and staff training.
The VGCCC’s stance indicates a willingness to support Crown Resorts as it navigates these challenges, provided the company adheres to the necessary reforms.
Challenges and Changes Ahead
Crown Resorts is currently facing a tumultuous period, marked by leadership changes and workforce reductions. Following the acquisition by Blackstone, the company saw its CEO, Ciarán Carruthers, depart, and it announced layoffs of 1,000 employees due to regulatory pressures and a decline in tourism.
Despite these challenges, Blackstone remains committed to the long-term success of Crown Resorts, recently injecting AU$500 million into the operator to bolster its operations. This financial support underscores the investment firm’s belief in the potential for recovery and growth within the company.
- Recent Developments:
- Blackstone injected AU$500 million into Crown Resorts.
- Leadership changes and layoffs amid regulatory scrutiny.
- Ongoing commitment to reform and compliance.
The VGCCC has acknowledged Crown Resorts’ commitment to addressing deficiencies in technology, staff training, and monitoring. However, the commission has made it clear that it will continue to closely monitor the company’s progress to ensure compliance with all regulations.
