The New South Wales government is looking into the creation of an Independent Casino Commission, following the results of an independent inquiry into Crown Resorts.
The government notes that it is now planning a “redesigned regulatory structure for casinos” in the territory, according to the group’s Digital and Customer Service Minister.
Victor Dominello noted that it was “critical the management and operation of casinos in New South Wales are free from criminal influence and exploitation”.
The recommendation comes as one of the 19 suggestions by the Royal Commission inquiry into the casino operator; all of the suggestions have been accepted by the state government.
One of the new recommendations, number 16, may cause particular ire to billionaire James Packer, which has been fighting attempts to limit his voting power on the company he has since stepped away from.
The recommendation states that the new Independent Casino Commission would be required to approve all acquisitions, holdings, or transfer of interest of 10 percent or more in a casino license.
Crown’s Holding company, Consolidated Press Holdings (CPH), had argued that an individuals holdings of shares in a holding company “does not of itself give a person influence over {…} the management or operation of the casino business”.
The grouped claimed that the removal from such operation and management had already been undertaken, without requiring further restrictions for shareholders.
The nation’s digital and customer service minister noted the new recommendations would be “an important first step in the process of reforming the casino sector”.
However, the New South Wales government continues to keep an eye on the ongoing royal commission into Crown in Victoria, as well as Western Australia. The minister says that they will then consider further proposals for regulatory reform against Crown.
New South Wales’ Independent Liquor and Gaming License Authority continues to assess Crown’s suitability to hold a gaming license in the state.
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