Crown Resorts introduces strict player controls at Melbourne casino
Players visiting Crown Resorts Crown Casino Melbourne will have to adapt to some changes. Crown Resorts' Melbourne-based Crown Casino has introduced mandatory card games on its nearly 3,000 electronic pokies in a bid to tackle gambling addiction and maintain its license.
These include mandatory check-in and setting time and spending limits in advance so guests can track and monitor their progress. Also included are regular safety checks carried out by a dedicated team and expanded access to preventive gambling support.
Crown said in a statement that the move, the first of its kind in the world, follows the recommendations of the Royal Commission into Casino Licensing in Victoria in 2021. It reflects Crown's partnership with the Victorian Government to promote responsible gambling behavior while overcoming existing problems.
How the Crown Got Here
The Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) fined Crown A$30 million (approximately US$20 million) following the royal commission. The gambling regulator has confirmed that Crown allows its customers to gamble using bank checks, further highlighting the need for effective measures to curb harmful gambling behaviour.
The casino giant is also directly and indirectly involved in money laundering. Ultimately, Victoria and other states concluded Crown was unworthy of holding a casino license, leading to restructuring proceedings.
The new credit card measures aim to promote responsible gambling by empowering individuals to set and monitor their own limits, ensuring they gamble in a controlled and informed manner. The security controls introduced by a team of experts further strengthen the casino’s commitment to identifying and supporting individuals who may be struggling with gambling addiction.
Expanding the scope of preventive gambling support is a key step in tackling problem gambling. It provides individuals with the resources and guidance they need to manage their gambling habits and seek professional help when needed.
Investigation into Crown CEO progresses
An investigation is progressing into recent allegations that Crown chief executive Ciaran Carruthers intervened to "allow patrons to gamble" while being prevented by security. Crown encourages its employees to disclose any inappropriate behavior they observe.
A letter sent to employees by the company on Wednesday confirmed it had hired a law firm to investigate two separate allegations against Carruthers. The letter also urges employees to report any other inappropriate behavior they may encounter.
If the allegations against Carruthers are proven, they could further damage Crown's reputation and jeopardize its ability to operate casinos in Australia. The company has previously been fined millions of dollars for violating gambling regulations.
The letter, addressed to employees who recently threatened to strike, also asks them to raise any concerns about the company's culture and practices. Emphasizing that the company will not tolerate any inappropriate behavior and will take all necessary steps to resolve issues raised.
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Source: www.casino.org
