Crown Resorts deemed suitable to operate Melbourne casino

The Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC), determined that Crown Resorts, an Australian casino operator, was eligible to keep the casino license.

The VGCCC has also given the go-ahead for Crown Resorts to resume operations at its Melbourne casino.

At a press conference in Melbourne, VGCCC Chairperson Fran Thorn made the announcement. The decision was made after a thorough examination of recent investigations into Crown acts in Victoria, New South Wales, and Perth, as well as the oversight provided by Special Manager Stephen O’Bryan over the previous two years.

According to Thorn, the Special Manager’s findings—which found that Crown Melbourne had remedied systemic issues brought up by the Royal Commission—were satisfactory to the VGCCC. Moreover, the Commission’s own assessment confirmed that Crown Melbourne met appropriateness requirements and showed a desire to do better.

Concerns over Crown’s potential intimidation tactics were addressed by Thorn, who said that the regulator is not swayed by them and that measures are in place to ensure compliance. She pointed out that there have been significant changes to Crown’s ownership and management, with a new senior leadership team and board dedicated to corrective action.

Even though O’Bryan’s term as Special Manager is coming to an end in June, Thorn has said that they want to create a dedicated casino unit in order to enhance regulatory oversight. The VGCCC will keep a close eye on Crown’s development and expects the company to prioritize public trust, safety, and compliance.

Thorn concluded by admonishing Crown that the VGCCC would act immediately if it did not fulfill its obligations as a casino operator, emphasizing how important it is to maintain integrity and public trust in the industry.

Original story by: IAG