I welcome the Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor
Regulation’s reported finding that Crown Casino broke the law by
blanking out buttons on poker machines. This is a very serious offence
for which Crown should stand condemned.
However I do not accept Crown’s explanation that this was only a
trial, because there is an abundance of evidence that the practice has
been more widespread. Nor do I think the $300,000 fine is enough given
the severity of the misconduct.
It appears that a number of other issues that I raised remain
unresolved, such as the alleged covering up of domestic violence,
because they are outside the remit of the VCGLR. There are also the
allegations of the use of plastic picks to hold down buttons and the
issuing of multiple loyalty cards which I raised this week. I am
hopeful that the VCGLR will be able to make findings about these
allegations as more evidence emerges.
I continue to be approached by a number of whistleblowers alleging
serious misconduct at Crown Casino, and will be bringing these
allegations to the attention of the VCGLR and Victoria Police when
appropriate.
I expect the Commission and the police to diligently probe these
matters. It would be completely unacceptable to the community if they
take the casino’s explanations at face value or continue to hand out
slap-on-the-wrist fines.
Authorised by Andrew Wilkie MP 188 Collins St Hobart
Andrew Wilkie, Independent MP for Denison
