New legislation to enhance the powers of the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission
Tougher gambling regulations mean Crown casino will be hit with fines of up to $100m for a single breach of the code of conduct.
Police & Courts
Don't miss out on the headlines from Police & Courts. Followed categories will be added to My News.
Tougher gambling regulations will be carried out in casinos across the state, with further recommendations from the Crown Royal Commission introduced to parliament on Tuesday.
Casino inspectors will now be given greater access to surveillance equipment and records.
Employees at casinos will also be required to assist inspectors access and operate surveillance equipment to monitor all activity on the gaming floor.
The legislation will enhance the powers of the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission and transfer liquor regulation to the Department of Justice and Community Safety.
The changes will make gambling harm minimisation part of the commission’s core business and increase its powers to take action against Crown Melbourne if it fails to abide by the code of conduct.
The new laws will mean a single breach of the code is grounds for disciplinary action.
The maximum fine the commission can impose has also increased, which will see Crown face fines of up to $100m.
Work is currently under way to transition the regulation of liquor to the department, which will enable the commission to exclusively focus on monitoring gambling and the casino.
The department will be able to undertake licensing, compliance and enforcement activity.
Gaming and Liquor Regulation Minister Melissa Horne said the legislation will ensure reducing gambling harm is a key priority of the regulator.
“We’re continuing to hold Crown to account, and these changes will strengthen the already robust oversight of the casino operator,” Ms Horne said.
“The legislation introduced today is an important step in implementing every one of the Royal Commission’s recommendations, with further reforms to be introduced later this year.”
Restaurateur charged with Nazi sign at pro-Palestinian rally
A celebrated restaurateur is the man charged with holding up a Nazi swastika sign at Sunday’s pro-Palestinian rally in Hyde Park.
Police defend aggressive actions in Broadmeadows arrest
Police have been captured on camera kneeling on a man who they allege was resisting arrest after punching an officer in the face in Melbourne’s north.