The Western Australian government has found Crown Perth to be suitable to maintain its land-based casino licence after implementing new anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing (AML/CTF) measures.
The finding follows the recommendation of the Gaming and Wagering Commission (GWC) of Western Australia, which conducted a suitability assessment of the licensee following the conclusion of the Perth Casino Royal Commission (PCRC) three years ago.
Crown Perth has been overhauled through a refreshed corporate and governance structure, enhanced employee screening, and training models to promote ethical behaviours, as well as actions to minimise gambling harm.
The casino has also implemented “adequate and legislatively compliant” AML/CTF measures to prevent criminal infiltration at the Perth Casino, such as transaction monitoring and technology to flag suspicious patrons with cash above certain thresholds.
“Three years ago, the State Government established the Perth Casino Royal Commission due to failures by Crown Perth to meet anti-money laundering/counter-terrorism financing obligations and prevent criminal activity,” said Racing and Gaming Minister Paul Papalia. “Today I can confirm we won’t be taking punitive action against Crown Perth, as it is now deemed a suitable entity to continue holding a gaming licence under the Casino Control Act 1984.
“The Gaming and Wagering Commission will make former Independent Monitor Paul Steel a part of the GWC team to continue to monitor remediated activities by the casino and ensure effectiveness.”
Gaming and Wagering Commission chair Gary Dreibergs commented: “The Gaming and Wagering Commission has built capacity and capability since the Royal Commission brought down its findings and, going forward, will focus on developing an assurance plan to monitor the remediated activities by the Perth Casino licensee to ensure it operates responsibly, lawfully and in the best interests of the Western Australian community.
“The Commission emphasises that, while suitability has been demonstrated, sustained cultural change and long-term commitment to reforms are essential. We will continue to monitor Crown Perth’s efforts to reduce gambling harm and uphold public trust.”
The announcement was welcomed by Crown Resorts, which noted that all three of its properties have now been deemed suitable by state regulators, with Melbourne and Sydney retaining their licenses in March and April 2024, respectively.
“Our extensive business-wide transformation has set new benchmarks for the industry, creating a safer environment for our guests and the community,” said Crown Resorts CEO David Tsai. “With all three Crown properties now deemed suitable and retaining their casino licences, we are focused on remaining the safest place to game in Australia, while also delivering exciting world-class entertainment experiences for our guests.”
Demonstrating its commitment to responsible and safe gaming, Crown Perth will introduce carded play on all electronic gaming machines from December 1, after being implemented at Crown Melbourne in December 2023. Since then, over 400,000 guests have registered for carded play.