Crown Resorts has cleared the final hurdle in its long path back to full suitability after the Western Australia Government announced that Crown Perth has been found suitable to maintain its casino license.
Crown Perth had been found unfit to hold a casino license in March 2022 following an inquiry that echoed similar inquiries in NSW and Victoria but avoided license cancellation or suspension, with the property instead placed under the watch of an independent monitor.
Crown’s long-time flagship Crown Melbourne was found suitable to hold a casino license in March 2024, as was Crown Sydney a month later in April 2024.
In a statement issued Tuesday, the Western Australia Government said Racing and Gaming Minister Paul Papalia had now determined that 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.”
Papalia also found that Crown Perth “has implemented adequate and legislatively compliant anti-money laundering/counter-terrorism financing measures to prevent criminal infiltration at the Perth Casino such as transaction monitoring and technology to flag suspicious patrons with cash above certain thresholds.”
The suitability assessment was informed by the final report of independent monitor Paul Steel, who approved and monitored the implementation of a comprehensive remediation plan put forward by Crown Perth to become a suitable casino gaming licensee and restore public confidence, the government added.
Crown Resorts explained that the finding of suitability followed a AU$200 million (US$131 million) investment into various reforms, particularly around harm minimization, financial crime, culture and governance, compliance and risk.
“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.”
Minister Papalia added, “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.
“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.”
Crown Perth is described as the city’s largest single-site employer, with more than 5,000 staff working at the property.
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