A new casino regulator is to be set up to begin the implementation of reforms to NSW casinos following the Bergin Inquiry Report on the regulation of casinos.
The Government has agreed to all 19 recommendations in the Report which also considered the suitability of Crown Resorts to hold a restricted gaming facility licence.
Minister for Digital and Customer Service, Victor Dominello said a suite of legislative reforms recommended by the Commissioner, former Judge of the Supreme Court Patricia Bergin, would also be introduced.
“The NSW Government response to the Bergin Inquiry will see a redesigned regulatory structure for casinos in NSW, with a clearer focus on addressing money-laundering risks inherently associated with casino activities,” Mr Dominello said.
“It is critical the management and operation of casinos in NSW are free from criminal influence and exploitation,” he said.
“Committing to implement the 19 recommendations from Justice Bergin’s Report is an important first step in the process of reforming the casino sector.”
Mr Dominello said the new casino regulator would be subject to detailed design work and would be funded via the casino supervisory levy.
“In addition, we will continue to monitor the current casino Royal Commissions in Victoria and Western Australia and consider any proposals for regulatory reform recommended by those inquiries, including stronger gambling harm minimisation measures,” he said.
Mr Dominello said the Independent Liquor & Gaming Authority was assessing the suitability of Crown to hold a NSW restricted gaming facility licence and was responsible for determining the circumstances in which the Crown Sydney’s gaming facility was permitted to open.
