The Liquor and Gambling Commissioner has ordered an independent review of casino operations in South Australia as interstate inquiries uncover significant failings of various casino operations.
Announcing the review, Commissioner Dini Soulio said a number of matters raised to date extended beyond any one organisation and pointed instead to broader systemic issues within the casino industry.
Commissioner Soulio said that as a result, an investigation would be undertaken by retired Supreme Court Judge, Brian Martin to ensure the way that SkyCity operated demonstrated that the licensee was still suitable to hold the casino licence in South Australia.
“Mr Martin is a highly respected member of the legal profession,” Commissioner Soulio said.
“He has conducted reviews of key criminal justice policies in South Australia including reforms to the handling of major indictable offences and the State’s sentencing discount scheme.
“I have every confidence he will deliver a report to help us ensure that South Australians can have confidence in the way that the Adelaide Casino is operating.”
Commissioner Soulio said Mr Martin would report to the Liquor and Gambling Commissioner by 1 February next year.
“Commissions of Inquiry have been undertaken in New South Wales, Victoria and Western Australia into the Casinos operating or proposing to operate in those states and a further inquiry is about to be commenced in Queensland,” the Commissioner said.
“Inquiries to date have highlighted significant failings on the part of Crown Resorts as operators of Crown Casinos.
“In addition, Star Entertainment Group is the subject of a current inquiry in NSW where significant failings have been identified.”
The Commissioner’s Terms of Reference for the review can be accessed at this PS News link.
