The Commission’s report highlighted several changes necessary for Crown to meet legal compliance standards, including implementing mandatory limits for electronic gaming machines (EGMs). Previous inquiries in New South Wales and Victoria also raised concerns about Crown’s suitability for a license, particularly in relation to relationships with junkets and anti-money laundering measures.
The report revealed that Crown Resorts and its subsidiaries had significant failings in these areas, indicating a lack of oversight and understanding of high-risk business practices. Key leadership figures were found to have limited knowledge of junket operations and associated risks, while corporate governance was criticized for centralizing legal and compliance functions.
In response to these findings, the Royal Commission recommended structural changes for Crown Perth, such as clarifying the roles of subsidiary entities and implementing a mandatory loss pre-commitment scheme for EGM play. The Gaming and Wagering Commission was also advised to undergo restructuring to improve regulatory oversight of operators like Crown.
Despite these concerns, Crown’s license was not immediately revoked, with the focus instead on implementing these proposed changes to ensure legal compliance moving forward. The impending acquisition by Blackstone further highlights the need for swift action to address the issues raised in the report.
