Crown Resorts appears to be extending its corporate makeover all the way to the gaming floor after the company announced Monday it would phase out indoor smoking at its Australian integrated resorts by the end of 2022.
The transition would primarily impact Crown’s premium gaming areas which currently permit smoking in certain areas with appropriate air filtration technology.
Crown said Monday it would make some premium gaming areas at its Australian casinos – Crown Melbourne and Crown Perth – smoke-free immediately, while the remainder would undergo a transition period as outdoor smoking areas were installed.
“We are committed to responding to community sentiment and expectations regarding smoking,” said Executive Chairman Helen Coonan.
“Crown’s decision to phase out indoor smoking at its properties has been made in response to those shifting expectations. The health and safety of our employees, guests and the community are our priority.”
Crown’s premium gaming operations have been at the heart of its recent woes after the recent NSW Bergin Inquiry uncovered evidence that VIP rooms and bank accounts in Melbourne and Perth were likely used for money laundering.
The company has since permanently ceased all activity with junket operators, while regulators in Western Australia last month issued a directive banning Crown Perth from participating in the conduct of junkets, premium player activity or privileged player activity with non-residents of Australia.
The governments of Victoria and Western Australia have both announced that they will run separate Royal Commissions into Crown’s suitability to retain their respective state casino licenses within the coming months.
Having already been found unsuitable in NSW, Crown is currently working with NSW regulators to achieve suitability status and open the doors of its new casino at Crown Sydney.
