Crown Resorts is facing a second regulatory probe in Victoria over its problem gambling practices and may face a fine of as much as A$100m (US$69m).
The Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission said that Crown’s inadequate procedures when it came to responsible gaming had put thousands of vulnerable people at risk.
“Crown’s responsible gambling obligations are a condition of the casino licence, designed to protect vulnerable patrons and to prevent gambling related harm to patrons, their families and the community. There is no more important obligation,” VGCCC chair Fran Thorn said on Monday.
The regulator said its decision to reopen an inquiry into Crown followed revelations from a recent Royal Commission probe into the company’s operations. That investigation found that Crown was unsuitable to hold a licence for its flagship Melbourne property.
“We heard many distressing stories at the Royal Commission of vulnerable patrons being encouraged to gamble beyond their means.
“The VGCCC will therefore be unflinching in its resolve to deal with the issues uncovered at the Royal Commission regarding Crown’s approach to responsible gambling and to ensure the casino operator acts in line with its legal obligations and the community’s expectations.”
The regulator will soon make another announcement once it has considered Crown’s response to a request for further information about its Responsible Service of Gambling obligations.
Source: Asia Gaming Brief