[ad_1]
“Frankly, this report is appalling. It provides evidence of a widespread breakdown in compliance in key areas of The Star’s business,” said NSW Independent Casino Commission chief commissioner Philip Crawford.
“Not only did the casino disguise huge sums of money as hotel expenses, but large sums of cash evaded anti-money laundering protocols in many cases, most egregiously through Salon 95 – a secret room with a second cash cage.”
Crawford said appropriate disciplinary action will be determined after The Star responds to the findings.
“In addition to Bell’s analysis of the real risks of criminal infiltration and concealment of officers conducting business, the report details cases where individual customers have suffered gambling harm,” he said.
“Once we give The Star an opportunity to respond to the notice, we will be able to determine the appropriate method of disciplinary action.”
loading
Crawford pointed to recent reforms by the NSW government that strengthened the oversight needed to act on the Bell report, which gave the NICC the power to strip the Star of its licence, suspend it, fine it and appoint a manager.
“The NICC has all the tools needed to respond to Bell’s recommendations, and we will develop an approach commensurate with the seriousness of the report.”
The Star is conducting a similar review in Queensland to assess the suitability of its continued licence to operate three casinos in the state.
After a series of inquiries in NSW, Victoria and WA, Crown Resorts was found unfit to hold any casino licence, but continued to operate after major changes to its management and culture and has been praised by the ILGA . Its Sydney casino started operations under a trial licence last month.
loading
In June, The Star announced that Tyro Payments boss Robbie Cooke will be its next CEO. Cooke completed work at Tyro in December, and his appointment at The Star remains subject to regulatory approval.
More to come
The Business Briefing newsletter features key stories, scoops and expert opinion. Sign up every weekday morning to get it.
[ad_2]
Source link