The body tasked with supervising Perth’s Crown Casino has conceded shortcomings in its responsibilities. Although the Western Australian (WA) gaming authority recognizes deficiencies in handling conflicts of interest, they assert that hindsight offers perfect clarity. This revelation arises amidst a royal inquiry probing whether lax governmental supervision contributed to issues of money laundering and compulsive gambling at the casino.
The investigation has already disclosed that the WA Gaming and Wagering Commission (GWC) disregarded serious accusations of money laundering against Crown, with the company’s own legal representation dismissing them as “media sensationalism.” The GWC, a compact, part-time panel, has drawn censure for its close ties with Crown. This is illustrated by disclosures that the state’s former lead casino overseer enjoyed frequent fishing excursions with Crown personnel.
In response, the department overseeing the GWC has pledged a comprehensive reformation, encompassing obligatory disclosure of personal connections with Crown staff and more stringent reporting of presents and entertainment. They are also reevaluating their ethical guidelines and anticipating an independent assessment of integrity within the department.
Siward acknowledged that his division’s previous method of handling conflicts of interest wouldn’t be acceptable in the current environment. The citizenry anticipates more from its regulatory bodies, and he guaranteed everyone that measures were being implemented to rectify the deficiencies.
The inquiry will also delve into whether Crown Resorts was permitted to oversee some of its Perth activities autonomously, directly under the watch of Western Australian officials.
The subsequent days will witness the commission hearing concluding statements from both Crown Resorts’ legal representatives and James Packer, the corporation’s principal stakeholder.