The application of a $1 million fine to Crown Casino for failing to comply with regulations around junket operations is little more than a slap on the wrist.
Last year Crown Casino paid $161 million in gaming taxes to the state of Victoria. Earnings before tax at the gaming giant’s Melbourne casino last financial year was $354 million.
Gaming Minister Melissa Horne owes Victorians an explanation as to why this fine is only being applied now.
Comments attributable to Shadow Minister for Gaming and Liquor Regulation, Steph Ryan:
“This fine amounts to less than a day’s takings at Crown’s Melbourne casino.”
“The fact this fine is only being applied now, after NSW did the due diligence on Victoria’s casino, shows how the Victorian regulator has monumentally failed to police Crown Casino.
“With major questions lingering over the effectiveness of the VCGLR, it is unimaginable that the Andrews Labor Government has barred the Royal Commission from looking at the regulator.”
