The Victorian Gaming and Alcohol Control Board (VGACB) has imposed a substantial financial penalty on Crown Melbourne casino for failing to fulfill its obligations regarding junket activities.
In essence, Crown was tasked with closely monitoring these junket operators – consider them VIP trip organizers – to guarantee everything was legitimate. However, the VGACB determined their supervision was insufficient, casting doubt on the integrity of the entire process.
It appears Crown lacked a firm grasp on the actions of these junket operators, neglecting to collect essential data and maintain accurate documentation. This absence of control implied that judgments about the operators’ suitability were not always made by individuals with a comprehensive understanding of the regulations.
Consequently, Crown Melbourne has been hit with a $1 million AUD fine (the highest possible sanction) and is prohibited from participating in any further junket operations until they rectify their practices. The VGACB stressed that this is not Crown’s initial transgression, but it marks the first instance of receiving the maximum penalty, highlighting the gravity of their persistent failure to implement robust protocols.
Resolute measures are required to safeguard Crown Melbourne from illicit activities and abuse. These are stringent regulatory obligations mandated by legislation, and Crown has consistently fallen short of meeting them.”
Crown’s Executive Chair, Helen Coonan, stated, “Crown is collaborating with the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VCGLR) and the Victorian Government concerning our remediation blueprint. These overhauls and operational adjustments are crafted to attain the utmost benchmarks of governance and adherence so that we can regain the confidence of the public and our regulatory bodies.”
“As a component of our reformation strategy, Crown has terminated all interactions with junket entities.”
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