Media releases

24 April 2024: Crown and MasterChef Australia have today partnered to announce a unique dining experience, bringing ALUMNI to Crown Melbourne from next month; a limited time only restaurant set to showcase the diverse talents of MasterChef Australia alumni cooks. 

The 16th season of the hugely popular reality show will see a rotating cast of MasterChef Australia alumni feature at the restaurant for a limited time, serving dishes from the cuisine they are best known. Each ALUMNI chef will take up rotating residency at the restaurant for three weeks.  

Fans and foodies alike can visit ALUMNI to sample dishes from Kishwar Chowdhury (16 May – 2 June), Callum Hann (6 – 23 June), and Khanh Ong (27 June – 14 July), with a surprise fourth MasterChef Australia cook to be announced on 25 June.

Crown Resorts EGM of Brand and Marketing, Yolanda Uys, said: “Crown is a leading curator of exceptional, interesting experiences in Australia, and we are incredibly excited to partner with MasterChef Australia to bring a unique dining experience with the launch of ALUMNI at Crown Melbourne. 

“Crown is Australia’s largest hospitality employer, with 51 restaurants and 31 bars across our three resorts. Each year we train approximately 75 apprentice chefs to go on to have illustrious careers, so as a leader in the hospitality industry, nothing brings us more joy than to partner with these chefs, and further add to our stable of world-class restaurants as we bring the magic of this iconic partnership to life for Australian foodies to enjoy.”

Rod Prosser, Chief Sales Officer, Paramount Australia, said: “This announcement is breaking new ground for the MasterChef franchise and demonstrates Paramount Brand Studio’s expertise in collaborating with partners and brands to redefine brand integrations and traditional sponsorships.

“The team has amplified this audience opportunity and worked closely with our partners to create a remarkable brand extension and experience like nothing we’ve seen before in Australia and we can’t wait for fans to see, smell, touch and taste MasterChef Australia at ALUMNI.”

Marty Benson, Director of Content, Melbourne, Endemol Shine Australia said: “Showcasing diverse and talented Australian cooks is at the heart of MasterChef Australia and ALUMNI is a wonderful celebration of our legacy and success stories.

“MasterChef Australia is a life changing experience with so many of our contestants carving out entirely new careers so it’s wonderful to see the ongoing impact of our show through the ALUMNI dining experience.

“And just like MasterChef Australia, ALUMNI will celebrate food from around the world with Kishwar, Callum and Khanh reflecting their cultures through their unique cuisine.”

Kishwar Chowdhury said: “I am so excited to be the first MasterChef off the rank for the ALUMNI at Crown residency! I’ve curated a special menu featuring some of my signature dishes, showcased across India and Bangladesh, including the dessert that took me to the MasterChef finale. I’m so excited to be bringing this menu to Crown Melbourne to share with you all!”

Callum Hann said: “MasterChef set me on the path towards the career I have today; from the age of 19 it’s been a part of my life and story so I’m very excited to showcase my love for Aussie produce and take the best of what’s in season to create an unforgettable menu. As one of the earliest MasterChef alumni, I’m also super proud to show my kids where the dream began.”

Khanh Ong said: “I'm super excited to be part of this amazing event at Crown. I've put together a menu that really brings out the best of my Vietnamese heritage and mixes it with some fine dining flair. We're talking bold flavours, fresh ingredients, and little twists along the way that I hope everyone will love!”

Bookings for each ALUMNI chef will open in stages, with reservations for Kishwar Chowdhury’s Bangladeshi and regional Indian menu now available. 

At Crown’s three Australian resorts, the MasterChef Australia collaboration will be able to be experienced by fans across an array of soon-to-be-announced activities. 

The launch of MasterChef Australia reached 1.42 million total national viewers with so much more still to come this season with guest appearances from some of Crown’s renowned culinary stable of chefs.

See more information and plan your visit here:

Crown Melbourne: https://www.crownmelbourne.com.au/

Crown Sydney: https://www.crownsydney.com.au/

Crown Perth: https://www.crownperth.com.au/

April 23, 2024: Crown Resorts and Crown Sydney (Crown) acknowledge today’s decision by the New South Wales Independent Casino Commission (NICC) that Crown Sydney has been found suitable to retain its casino licence. The decision follows the recent announcement by the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) that Crown Melbourne was also found suitable to retain its casino licence.

Crown has invested $200 million in a comprehensive transformation of its business, implementing extensive reforms across harm minimisation, financial crime, governance, compliance, and risk. This work has been implemented under new ownership and executive leadership, following the acquisition of Crown by Blackstone in June 2022, as well as the implementation of new Boards, including Crown Sydney’s Board under the Chairmanship of John Borghetti.  

Crown Sydney has introduced rigorous standards to deter and detect money laundering as part of its ongoing focus on financial crime prevention. As part of this, Crown Sydney was the first in NSW to introduce cashless gaming on all Electronic Table Games (ETGs). This, coupled with Crown’s innovative and industry-leading harm minimisation program, Crown PlaySafe, has transformed Crown Sydney into the safest place to gamble in the State. 

Crown Sydney will continue to work constructively and collaboratively with the NICC to implement the requirements outlined today as it relates to the casino licence, and ensure ongoing compliance with industry regulations and standards.

The $2.2bn Crown Sydney resort opened in December 2020 as an anchor resident of Barangaroo and since then, has attracted millions of visitors to the area. Today, Crown Sydney is home to award-winning restaurants and bars, a world-class hotel and has cemented itself as part of the iconic Sydney skyline. 

Crown Perth continues its transformation activities and implementation of its remediation plan, which is due to be submitted to the Perth Independent Monitor by the end of January 2025. 

Commentary   

Crown Sydney CEO, Mark McWhinnie: “Since opening the Crown Sydney casino in August 2022, we have worked tirelessly to implement wholesale reform across our business, delivering 432 remediation activities to the NICC across key areas, including harm minimisation, financial crime, compliance, risk, and culture. 

“The NICC’s decision today recognises the genuine and sustainable changes we’ve made and our ongoing commitment to operating at the highest industry standards. I would like to thank the NICC, led by Chief Commissioner, Philip Crawford, for his continued leadership, professional engagement and commitment to regulatory reform.  

“Crown Sydney is the safest place to gamble in the State.”

“Today’s outcome would not be possible without the unwavering hard work and dedication of our team and while we take a moment to recognise this milestone today, we know that the work doesn’t stop here. Our transformation has laid the pathway for the future so we can exceed the expectations of our guests, team members, stakeholders and the community.”  

Crown Resorts CEO, Ciarán Carruthers: “Under the ownership of Blackstone, who brought in new executive leadership, management, and Boards, the Crown of today has been rebuilt from the inside out. We’ve spent the past two years pioneering a monumental transformation unlike anything seen before in corporate Australia. 

“We remain committed to Crown’s ongoing cultural transformation, compliance, and ensuring that we are the safest gambling venue in Australia while providing a fun and entertaining environment for our guests. We must continue to build and maintain trust and respect while showing that success and commercial viability go hand in hand with trust, care and integrity. 

“I would like to thank Philip Crawford for his leadership of the NICC and echo his sentiment that we must remain steadfast in our commitment to suitability, accountability and compliance. 

“I am immensely proud of what our team has accomplished with two of our three properties being found suitable to retain their casino licences and we continue to focus on our ongoing remediation work in Perth. 

“We know holding a casino licence is a privilege and an obligation we take extremely seriously. We will continue to build trust with our communities and stay focused on our vision to become a beacon of excellence for integrated resorts.”

17 April 2024 – Melbourne, Australia: Crown has today unveiled the first new venue as part of the initial stage of its redevelopment with ‘The Henley at Crown Melbourne’, a new world-class bar set to open in late 2024.

Designed by leading Melbourne Interior Architecture & Design studio, Mitchell & Eades, The Henley at Crown Melbourne is inspired by the origins of the Henley-on-Yarra Regattas, where people gathered in masses along the riverbank, and represents a new social hub for Melbourne.

A dramatic U-shaped marble bar will take prominence in the space, while customers can enjoy multiple areas throughout the venue, including a leafy outdoor setting, the bar, high table options for large groups, and more intimate dining spaces set into alcoves.

The beverage range will offer something for everyone, from bright cocktails to local and imported tap beer. The drinks menu will see a strong focus on Victorian wines, alongside representation from leading overseas producers.

To accompany, the venue’s food offering will also play hero to Victorian produce, with a modern Australian menu focused on small and share plates.

The Henley at Crown Melbourne will be located at the eastern end of the resort opening onto the Riverwalk and occupy the current Rosetta space, which is closing on 18 May 2024.

Mike Volkert, Crown Melbourne CEO, said:

“We are thrilled to share the news of The Henley at Crown Melbourne as we begin to reinvigorate Crown Melbourne for our guests.

“Our vision for The Henley at Crown Melbourne was to create a venue that opens directly onto the Riverwalk - a unique and previously underutilised asset - allowing for greater catchment as people seek out a riverside drink or meal.

“The announcement of The Henley at Crown Melbourne signifies the start of what is to come for Crown. We are looking to create a portfolio of restaurants and bars that bring together the best culinary and bartender talent from across the world combined with the best local talent and inimitable Melbourne flavour to create the city’s most sought-after hospitality destination.

“We look forward to providing our guests with more information on The Henley at Crown Melbourne in the coming months.”

To stay up to date on The Henley at Crown Melbourne, follow @CrownMelbourne on Instagram and Facebook.

Crown Sydney has become the first Australian hotel in operation to be awarded a 6 Star Green Star Design & As Built certified rating from the Green Building Council of Australia, in further recognition of its iconic building at Barangaroo.

The 6 Star Green Star rating, which is the highest possible, is reserved for world-leading achievements in building design and construction that address environmental issues.

Crown Resorts' Chief Government & External Affairs Officer, Sarah Adams said she was proud to see Crown Sydney recognised with the rating from the Green Building Council of Australia.

“The Australia-first accolade is a testament to Crown’s investment in constructing not only a state of the art building with a world leading hotel, spa, food, beverage and entertainment options, but one which also reflects our commitment to environmentally sustainable operations.

“We remain committed to ensuring our environmental sustainability is front of mind across every aspect of our operations at Crown,” said Ms Adams.

The Green Star rating tool assesses buildings across 11 categories, with Crown excelling in the areas of Management, Indoor Environment Quality, Transport and Innovation.

Crown Sydney has a range of unique and innovative design features that have enabled it to operate sustainably, including:

• Utilising Sydney Harbour as a heat dissipation medium and eliminating the need for energy-intensive cooling towers on the property;
• An onsite solar array and smart metering system for energy and water monitoring;
• Harvesting rainwater to be reused for irrigation and incorporated throughout the property; and
• World-class gaming facilities that are designed to exceed minimum air quality requirements and utilise thermal comfort technology.
  
  

CEO of the Green Building Council of Australia, Davina Rooney said Crown Sydney has set a new standard for hotel groups across Australia with their 6 Star Green Star certification.

“It’s wonderful to see Crown’s commitment to sustainable building practices aligning with other buildings in the 6 Star Green Star certified Barangaroo South precinct. We hope this project inspires other hotel groups across Australia,” Ms Rooney said.

The 6 Star Green Star Rating is the latest accolade for Crown Sydney, which has previously received multiple global design awards, including the Best New Tall Building in the World at the 2021 Emporis Awards and Development of the Year 2021 at the Urban Taskforce Development Excellence Awards.

26 March 2024 – Melbourne, Australia: Crown Resorts and Crown Melbourne (Crown) acknowledge today’s decision by the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) that Crown Melbourne has retained its Victorian Casino licence following a comprehensive transformation of its business.

Since 2021, Crown has invested approximately $200 million into its transformation, introducing extensive reforms across harm minimisation, financial crime, governance, compliance, risk, and culture, which has been accelerated under new ownership and management. Guest wellbeing and harm minimisation has been at the forefront of the transformation, resulting in the implementation of world-leading initiatives at Crown Melbourne.

The decision comes during Crown’s 30th anniversary year. Since first opening its doors on the north bank of the Yarra River and single-handedly changing the entertainment landscape in Australia, Crown Melbourne has grown to be the largest single-site employer in Victoria, and now stands as the safest place to gamble in the State.

Crown Melbourne acknowledges the requirement outlined by the VGCCC today as it relates to the casino licence and will continue to work constructively with the regulator to ensure ongoing compliance with broader industry regulations and standards.

Crown expects further updates regarding Crown Sydney’s licence status in the coming weeks, while Crown Perth continues its remediation activity and implementation.

CEO Commentary

Crown Melbourne CEO, Mike Volkert: “This outcome is one of the most significant milestones in Crown Melbourne’s 30-year history. It would not have been possible without the efforts of our team members, who have worked diligently over the past two years to implement meaningful change that has truly transformed our business.

“What we have achieved must be a continual focus for everyone at Crown Melbourne. We know the work doesn’t stop here, and we are committed to delivering the highest industry standards and putting the welfare of our guests at the forefront of decision-making, day in and day out.

“I would also like to acknowledge and recognise the Victorian Special Manager, Stephen O’Bryan KC and the Office of the Special Manager and the VGCCC led by Chair Fran Thorn and CEO Annette Kimmett AM for raising the standards of the entire industry.

“Crown Melbourne is now the safest venue in Victoria for gaming and entertainment, and we look forward to continuing to welcome our guests.”

Crown Resorts CEO, Ciaran Carruthers: “Since the acquisition of Crown Resorts by Blackstone in June 2022, and the appointment of new boards and a new executive leadership team, Crown Resorts has pioneered one of the most complex transformations ever undertaken in Australia. Over 10,000 pages of documentation have been submitted and 770 remediation activities have been delivered to our state regulators, fundamentally rebuilding our organisation from the inside out.

“Holding a casino licence is a privilege and an obligation we take extremely seriously. I am proud of what our team has accomplished, and the safe environment Crown Melbourne now operates in.

“Together we have built a stronger, better Crown and our unrelenting focus will remain on delivering the highest standards of integrity, harm minimisation and service excellence across our industry.”

Media Notes
• Crown Melbourne is Victoria’s largest single-site employer.
• Crown Melbourne’s transformation included the del ivery of The Melbourne Remediation Action Plan, which implemented 342 initiatives across eight workstreams. Areas of focus included financial crime, compliance and risk, governance, harm minimisation via Crown PlaySafe, and culture.
• Significant initiatives implemented throughout Crown Melbourne’s transformation include:

Introducing Crown PlaySafe as part of expanded reforms to reduce gambling harm.
Implementing world first carded play measures on all 2,600 Electronic Gaming Machines at Crown Melbourne.
Launching a new $2 million Crown PlaySafe centre at Crown Melbourne in October 2023.

19 March 2024: Crown Melbourne is pleased to confirm that the Fair Work Commission has approved the Crown Melbourne Limited Enterprise Agreement 2023 and the Crown Melbourne Limited Surveillance and Managers Enterprise Agreement 2023.

These agreements are now in place for eligible Crown Melbourne team members and include:

• A 4.25% wage increase from the first pay period to commence on or after 1 July 2023. This wage  increase will be back paid to this date.
• A 4% wage increase from the first pay period to commence on or after 1 July 2024.
• An increase of two days of paid personal / carers leave per year to provide greater flexibility with caring and support arrangements for team members and their families.
• An additional 1% wage increase at Year 5, Year 10, and Year 15 of continuous service to reward team member loyalty.

Crown Melbourne CEO Mike Volkert said: “This is a great outcome for Crown Melbourne and our team members, and I would like to thank the United Workers’ Union for working with us throughout this process. We aimed to deliver a fair agreement with a balanced wage outcome, which we believe has been achieved. With the agreements now in place, we will continue our focus on delivering exceptional guest experiences while ensuring that Crown Melbourne remains a fantastic place to work.”

A limited series jazz showcase atop Perth’s most sought-after view

Perth, 22 February 2024: Crown Perth today unveiled Jazz Nights at Crystal Club – a limited series featuring local WA talent set against the best view in Perth.

Situated on the 15th floor of Crown Towers facing the stunning night skyline of Perth’s CBD, the opulent Crystal Club will be transformed into a moody jazz lounge, with rotating artists each week from The Western Australian Jazz Project.

Guests will receive a drink on arrival before being seated in the stunning Crystal Club, usually open exclusively to select hotel guests staying at Crown Towers. 

Guests will be able to order from a delicious night-bites menu and kick back with a premium cocktail, wine or fizz while taking in the sounds of some of WA’s best jazz talent. 

Crown Perth CEO David Tsai said with the experience capped at approximately 60 guests per night, Jazz Nights at Crystal Club is designed to be the perfect intimate setting to kick-on after dinner.

“Our Crystal Club has the most amazing view of the city, and we're excited to allow everyone the opportunity to experience it for a limited time,” Mr Tsai said.

“By engaging local jazz talent in an exclusive and intimate venue, we will create a uniquely Crown experience we are sure guests won’t want to miss. Guests will then have the opportunity to join in with the rest of Crown’s buzzing entertainment complex right downstairs.

 Adrian Kelly from The Western Australian Jazz project said the opportunity to showcase talent in a location synonymous with old worldly glamour will be sought after. 

"Featuring some of Perth's finest jazz musicians, this jazz trio gig is the perfect way to spend your Saturday night. Enjoy the intimate sounds of live jazz in Perth's hottest new jazz location and let the music transport you to another era.”

Crown Perth’s Jazz Nights at Crystal Club will start Saturday 9 March and run every Saturday from 8:30pm to 11:30pm until the end of April. Entry prices start at $45 per person (buy online or $50 at the door) including a drink on arrival. 

ABOUT CROWN PERTH

Crown Perth opened its doors in 1985 and has grown to become the city’s most popular entertainment destination. Offering unrivalled hotel accommodation, events and conferencing, dining and entertainment throughout, the integrated resort draws more than 9 million guests per year.  

Located on the banks of the Derbal Yerrigan (The Swan River), Crown Perth is Western Australia’s only fully integrated entertainment resort and the State’s largest single site private employer with more than 5,000 team members.  

Offering almost 1,200 hotel rooms, Crown Perth is also home to a 24-hour casino featuring more than 130 table games and 2,300 electronic gaming machines, making it the ideal venue to stay, celebrate and entertain. Crown Perth’s line up of more than 30 restaurants and bars includes the world-renowned Nobu and Bistro Guillaume, featuring acclaimed chef Guillaume Brahimi’s exquisite French cuisine. As Perth’s largest hotel, Crown Towers continues to also be the first and only Forbes Five-Star luxury hotel in WA. 

The 2300-seat Crown Theatre draws audiences to more than 250 shows annually from cabaret to musicals to solo artists. Crown is also a destination of choice for more than 1,500 events and conferences each year, delivering some of Perth’s finest, most-acclaimed events spanning from gala dinners and black-tie affairs to conferences, breakfasts, and exhibitions throughout the more than 8,000 square metres of available venue space.  

Crown is a proud part of the WA community and is committed to serving guests, the community and the city. Crown Perth has contributed thousands of training places to the local hospitality network through education and training and since 2015, the Crown Resorts Foundation has contributed over $25 million to local causes, proudly giving back to the community it operates in.

5 February 2024: As Presenting Partner of Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour, Crown will officially kick off its 100 Ticket Giveaway as excitement ramps up for the Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour.

Counting down to the most anticipated concert ever

Crown Sydney has today unveiled a monumental countdown clock outside its iconic building, marking the time until the first Sydney show of Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour. Fans are invited to celebrate by capturing moments with Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour imagery and enjoying some of her hit songs playing every hour on the hour. 

A chance to win one of 50 pairs of tickets

Amplifying the excitement, Crown Sydney will run a social media competition, giving away 50 pairs of tickets to Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour¹. To enter the competition, fans must snap a picture at the Crown Sydney countdown clock and post it on Instagram, tagging @CrownSydney, and they will be in with an opportunity to win.

Month-long Swiftie celebrations

Crown Sydney’s Teahouse has been transformed into a haven for Swifties with theming throughout the venue and additional opportunities to win tickets to the Sydney shows. The high tea features delicious sweet and savoury treats that Swifties will love.

While listening to iconic Taylor Swift tunes playing throughout the venue, guests will also have the opportunity to win tickets to Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour as part of Crown Sydney’s ‘dine and win' competition. Crown Sydney’s ‘stay and win’ competition will continue until 15 February, giving fans an opportunity to win tickets every week .

Crown Resorts Group Executive General Manager, Brand and Marketing, Yolanda Uys said: “As the presenting partner of Taylor Swift | The Era’s Tour in Australia, we wanted to create some truly unique and exciting experiences for fans at Crown Sydney. 

“From capturing memories at our countdown clock to enjoying the themed high tea at Teahouse, there is something for everyone to join in the celebrations of Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour in Sydney.

“Crown is where interesting things happen and entertainment is part of our DNA, so we’re beyond excited to a part of the tour but also to give our guests the opportunity to attend one of the most highly anticipated concerts in the world,” Ms Uys said.

¹T&Cs apply: https://www.crownsydney.com.au/whats-on/taylor-swift-countdown-clock Concert date is Friday 23 February. 
²T&Cs apply for both ‘dine and win’ and ‘stay and win’ competitions.

Imagery Here

2 February 2024: Crown Sydney has today unveiled its newly refreshed and redesigned casino at its iconic harbourside location, now open for Sydneysiders and visitors from Australia and around the world to enjoy¹.

Situated in the heart of Barangaroo with floor to ceiling glass walls, the casino has spectacular views of the harbour and is free to join for anyone²  over the age of 18. 

The revitalised space features a brand-new, innovative outdoor gaming area, a refreshed menu at dedicated restaurant, Mahogany Lounge, and additional table games in the private Sky Salons on level 28, where members can enjoy some of the city’s most magnificent harbour views.

Crown is committed to providing a world-class integrated resort for Sydney and Australia, and the casino has been revamped in response to guest feedback and changing market and tourism conditions.

Crown Sydney is one of the safest casinos in the world, with industry-leading gambling harm minimisation and financial crime detection and prevention measures in place. Crown PlaySafe enables a fun and safe environment for guests and provides preventative measures and support which prioritise player safety and well-being.

Crown Sydney CEO Mark McWhinnie said: “The unveiling of our new casino experience, coupled with our significant investment in gambling harm minimisation and financial crime prevention, sets a new standard here in Australia for safe gaming entertainment.

“We’ve created a world-class integrated resort with award-winning restaurants, an exceptional hotel and Australia’s first Forbes five star rated spa, and from today – a newly refreshed and redesigned casino.

“The recent updates to the casino are in response to feedback from our growing customer base, and we’re incredibly proud to have created an experience that is unique and exciting but also the safest place for gambling in New South Wales.

“Crown has invested millions of dollars in transforming our business – with significant investment in our guest experience, as well as gambling harm minimisation and financial crime prevention,” Mr McWhinnie said.  

For more information on the Crown Sydney Casino, visit the website.

14 December 2023: Crown Resorts (Crown) has completed the successful introduction of world-first carded play measures at its Melbourne Casino, accompanied by a comprehensive suite of enhanced safety measures to create a safer, more enjoyable gaming environment.

The implementation of carded play on all Electronic Gaming Machines at Crown Melbourne represents a significant investment in gambling harm prevention at Crown, signalling a new era of transparency and commitment that has not been seen in the gaming and entertainment industry before.

Supported by the Victorian Government’s YourPlay scheme, the new carded play technology has been rolled out over the last month and is now fully operational at Crown Melbourne.

From today, all guests who use an electronic gaming machine at Crown Melbourne will be required to obtain a valid Crown Player Card, which can be used to help to track and monitor play, ensuring that guests are better able to manage their gambling activity.

Key features of carded play include:

• Time and Spend Limits: Guests will be required to set personal time and spending limits, helping them to stay on track.

• Track and Monitor Play: Guests will be able to track their play and access Player Activity Statements to monitor their spend.

• Player Safety Checks: The card provides actionable insights into player behaviour, allowing Crown’s PlaySafe team to identify and undertake safety checks with those who may be engaged in prolonged or unsafe gambling.

• Access to Support: Once activated, the card will provide quick and easy access to information and resources for safer gambling, including contact information for support organisations.

CEO Commentary

Crown Resorts CEO Ciarán Carruthers said: “Crown’s ambition is to operate the safest casinos in the world, and we are proud to pioneer this transformative and world-first shift with the introduction of carded play at Crown Melbourne.

“The implementation of carded play begins a new era of transparency and commitment, helping to reshape the gambling landscape and ensure our guests are better able to manage and play within their personal limits.

“Carded play will help to foster a safer, more enjoyable experience for all and revolutionise the way our guests engage with gambling and entertainment,” Mr Carruthers said.

Crown Melbourne CEO Mike Volkert said: “Crown Melbourne is committed to providing an environment where our guests can enjoy themselves and have confidence in the support and safeguards available to them.

“Through our collaboration with the Victorian Government and our Crown PlaySafe program, carded play provides a roadmap for our industry, and is a significant step forward in realising our shared vision,” said Mr Volkert.

“The changes are part of a number of world-leading reforms being implemented across Crown, and we look forward to the positive impact carded play will have on our guests and the broader community.”

Earlier this year, Crown announced, Crown PlaySafe and a broadening of its player support measures, with a renewed focus on gambling harm prevention.

As part the new approach, Crown has already introduced new advertising guardrails to reflect updated harm minimisation principles, online self-exclusion across its three Australian resorts, new community partnerships and cashless gaming on electronic table games at Crown Sydney.

The company is now working to deliver mandatory carded play on electronic gaming machines at Crown Perth.

More information about Crown PlaySafe, including gambling safety tools such as carded play and how to set time and spend limits can be found here.

Perth, Monday 20 November 2023: Crown Perth will see out 2023 in style with its inaugural New Year’s Eve (NYE) Gala – a night like never before.

The larger-than-life event is expected to bring a crowd of who’s who in Perth as the first NYE Gala to return to Crown since hosting the Hopman Cup Ball.

Guests will revel in a night of celebrity entertainment featuring beloved actor and singer Tim Campbell and ARIA award-winner Anthony Callea, while they indulge in a delicious three-course menu and flowing Piper-Heidsieck champagne.

Crown Perth CEO David Tsai said he was excited to bring back New Year’s Eve extravagance to Crown Perth with the first-time gala.

“Crown is where people come to celebrate momentous occasions and New Year’s Eve is no exception,” he said.

“We provide guests with joyful and elevated experiences all-year-round, so what better way to toast the year than with an incredible gala to kick off 2024!”

From the dazzling NYE Gala at Crown Ballroom to the bespoke dining experiences at each of the restaurants, delicious cocktails and exciting live entertainment on offer such as drum lines, marching bands, disco dancers, stilt walkers and more roving throughout the property – there is something for everyone to ring in the new year at Crown.

The introduction of a NYE gala is just the latest example of Crown’s reinvigorated identity that centres around creating joyfully elevated experiences for its guests and communities.

Crown recently unveiled a bold new brand for the first time in nearly a decade, recapturing its original spirit as a leading curator of exceptional experiences, entertainment, and driving tourism in Australia.

The new brand campaign is a clever spin on Crown’s long held reputation as the home of all things interesting – entertainment, awards nights, celebrity sightings, gala events, TV broadcasts, and just about everything in between.

Tickets to the New Year’s Eve Gala are available online starting at a special inaugural price of $295 plus booking fee. A full table for 10 can be purchased for $2,700 plus booking fee with additional VIP tables available.

For a full list of New Year’s Eve events at Crown Perth, visit crownperth.com.au/whatson/new-years-eve.

30 October 2023: We can confirm police responded to an incident at Crown Towers Perth earlier today. 

Our team are assisting WA Police with their investigation, and we are supporting our team members.

Any further enquiries should be directed to WA Police. 

*Please attribute statement to a Crown Resorts spokesperson

18 October 2023: Crown Resorts (Crown) and VicWISE have today launched a new game-changing life skills program for international students, with an innovative and engaging approach to gambling harm prevention and education, supported by practical resources and tools. 

The VicWISE partnership builds on Crown’s commitment to creating a safer gambling culture and is one of several Crown PlaySafe actions and initiatives being implemented to maximise player safety and wellbeing at Crown. 

The program is designed to enhance the international student experience and includes a series of nationally held educational workshops, supported by messaging that effectively communicates the risks and potential harm from gambling. 

The workshops, which commence early next year, will be piloted alongside many of Crown’s fun and engaging guest experiences such as culinary masterclasses, safety and wellbeing seminars and other entertainment activities. 

Crown Resorts CEO Ciarán Carruthers said: “Crown is taking further action to support prevention efforts in the community as well as with our guests to play in a safe and enjoyable way."

"Research tells us that students from overseas are at higher risk of developing gambling related concerns when compared with the general population and have likely had less exposure to gambling harm educational material, which is a key component when it comes to making more informed decisions."

"This is why we are investing in community-based partnerships that help to support those who may be more vulnerable or at-risk of developing gambling related harms such as international students."

"We look forward to sharing and collaborating with VicWISE to deliver this innovative and engaging education program within our Australian resorts.” Mr Carruthers said.

VicWISE Founder and President Manorani Guy said: “Programs like this are vital for sectors such as international education and overseas students who are often being exposed to a greater variety and accessibility of gambling opportunities here than in their home country. 

“The collaborative effort by Crown signifies their unwavering commitment to the community, including international students, particularly when it comes to gambling harm awareness and education."

“Together, alongside hands-on learning in a fun and innovative environment, we will provide them with the tools and knowledge needed to safely thrive in their new home."

The Program also includes a series of comprehensive tools and resources to help students better their legal and financial knowledge, obtain budgeting and financial planning advice, as well as mental and physical wellbeing support.

11 October 2023 - Melbourne, Victoria: Crown Resorts is proud to announce a new and meaningful partnership with Police Veterans Victoria (PVV), a respected organisation representing the interests of police veterans in the community. 

This collaboration is designed to provide valuable mentoring, genuine career opportunities, a hardship fund and specialised training to empower veterans who have concluded their service in the police force. It also includes a unique initiative with the aim to expand the program nationally, reaching over 100,000 veterans across the country.

As part of this collaboration, Crown Resorts will provide funding and resources to aid PVV's various programs and activities that cater to the needs of police veterans and their families. This partnership is a reflection of Crown Resorts' commitment to giving back to the community and recognising the sacrifices made by those who have served in law enforcement.

Focusing on the specific needs of veterans who have transitioned into civilian life, this partnership underscores Crown Resorts' commitment to community engagement and social responsibility. The following initiatives will form the core of this collaboration:

1. Personalised Mentoring Programs: Crown Resorts and PVV will establish personalised mentoring programs to pair retired police veterans with mentors who understand the challenges of transitioning to civilian life. This mentorship will offer guidance and support as veterans embark on new endeavours.

2. Genuine Career Pathways: Crown Resorts is dedicated to offering authentic career opportunities within its diverse sectors to retired police veterans. This initiative not only enriches the Crown Resorts team but also provides fulfilling post-service career options for veterans.

3. Hardship Fund: A dedicated hardship fund will be established to provide financial assistance and support to police veterans and their families facing challenging circumstances. This fund exemplifies the commitment of Crown Resorts and PVV to stand by those who have dedicated their lives to safeguarding the community.

4. Specialised Training for Lifelong Success: To ensure lasting success, Crown Resorts will provide specialised training aligned with the career aspirations of retired police veterans. This training will empower veterans to excel in their chosen fields beyond their service.

Mike Volkert, Chief Executive Officer, Crown Melbourne, said: "Crown Melbourne is one of Australia’s most visited tourist destinations, so we appreciate the efforts of Victoria Police in keeping our community safe and see firsthand the immense dedication police work requires. We work very closely with Victoria Police and can attest to the tremendous job they do, as well as the unwavering support they extend to our security operation. Our partnership with Police Veterans Victoria recognises that support and is our way of giving back to the brave men and women that have served in the blue uniform. By offering personalised mentoring, genuine career opportunities, and specialised training, we aim to empower these veterans in their journey beyond the police force."

David McGowan, Chief Executive Officer, Police Veterans Victoria, said: "Our collaboration with Crown Resorts is an exceptional milestone and a significant step towards supporting retired police veterans. This partnership reflects our shared dedication to these veterans' well-being and successful transition to civilian life. Through mentoring, career opportunities, and specialised training, we're creating a platform for retired police veterans to continue thriving."

This collaboration between Crown Resorts and Police Veterans Victoria highlights the transformative potential of partnerships that prioritise community well-being. By offering tangible assistance and resources, this initiative will undoubtedly pave the way for police veterans to thrive in their post-service lives. Crown Resorts has committed to expanding this program nationally, with the aim of reaching over 100,000 veterans across the country. With Crown's dedicated support, it will begin in Victoria, extend to New South Wales, and then continue to other states, including Western Australia.

About Crown Resorts:
Crown Resorts is a renowned entertainment resort known for its commitment to excellence. In addition to its business endeavours, Crown Resorts actively engages in community partnerships to make a positive impact beyond its operations.

About Police Veterans Victoria:
Police Veterans Victoria (PVV) is an esteemed organisation that provides unwavering support to retired police veterans as they transition into civilian life. Through its programs and resources, PVV ensures that these veterans receive the assistance and recognition they deserve for their dedicated service.

Partnership to tackle road safety and team member wellbeing 

9 October 2023: Crown Resorts (Crown) and Driver Safety Australia (DSA) have partnered to develop a 12-month road safety workforce initiative, launched today as a part of National WorkSafe Month and Motorcycle Awareness Month in Victoria and New South Wales.

The partnership forms part of Crown’s health, safety and wellbeing vision to have its people bring their best selves to work, thrive and go home safely. In a bid to curb the growing issue road trauma has across communities, the ‘In Motion, Together’ program has been designed to equip Crown’s team members with the knowledge and skills to be safer road users. A series of online training modules and education materials will also be provided to Crown’s 23,000-strong workforce. 

The road safety program is championed by five-time MotoGP Champion, Mick Doohan, who said he was proud to help Crown in its efforts to protect all road users. 

“The difference between life and death often comes down to the decisions we make as individuals when we’re on the road – whether that’s behind a wheel, atop a motorcycle or pedalling a bicycle,” Mr Doohan said. 

“On the track, my racing career was bookended by two major crashes, one that almost caused the loss of my right leg and another that ended my professional track time for good. 

“I hope hearing my story first-hand will help Crown team members understand that crashes can happen to anyone of any skill level, and in turn foster an even greater attitude and aptitude for road safety,” he said. 

Along with his personal experiences, Mick Doohan will lend his professional expertise to the education training and materials that are being created by DSA for all Crown team members across its properties in Melbourne, Perth and Sydney.

DSA Managing Director Russell White commended Crown Resorts for taking proactive action in protecting its people and for driving positive change across the communities in which they live, work and play. 

“Vehicle-related trauma is the number one cause of workplace deaths nationwide , which is why having businesses like Crown raise the standard of training and education in this space needs to be applauded,” Mr White said. 

“Most importantly, this program instils critical road safety skills that are transferable beyond the workplace and serve as a driver of positive change for the hundreds of thousands of Australians Crown team members share the road with every day. 

“At a time when Australia is experiencing an 8.4 per cent increase in road fatalities , it’s my hope that other organisations are inspired by Crown’s lead and look to replicate this proactive approach,” he said. 

Crown Resorts CEO Ciarán Carruthers said ‘In Motion, Together’ represented a critical pillar of the company’s overall workplace health, safety and wellbeing strategy. 

“The welfare of every Crown team member is of paramount importance to us, not just when they're on the job or travelling to and from work, but in every aspect of their personal lives as well,” Mr Carruthers said. 

“We believe that as an organisation, Crown has a responsibility to go above and beyond in our efforts to protect our team members while also providing a positive contribution to the communities in which we operate.

“Crown recognises the significant impact organisations can have on helping road safety authorities, police and government in addressing road trauma, which is an issue that affects every single Australian and costs the nation upwards of $29 billion every year . Equipping our 23,000 team members with the resources and education to make their lives safer is of great benefit to our communities and we are proud to partner with DSA for this campaign,” he said. 

Over the past 12 months, road trauma has claimed the lives of more than 1,250 Australians . Additionally, incidents involving vehicles are attributed to 72 per cent of workplace fatalities.

¹Australian Automobile Association, Cost of Road Trauma in Australia, 2017
²Australian Government, Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communication, BITRE Road Deaths Monthly Bulletin, accessed 21 September 2023
³Australian Automobile Association, Cost of Road Trauma in Australia, 2017
⁴Australian Government, Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communication, BITRE Road Deaths Monthly Bulletin, accessed 21 September 2023
⁵Safe Work Australia, Work-Related Traumatic Fatalities Australia 2019

Here’s Where Things Get Interesting

24 September 2023: Crown Resorts (Crown) has today signalled a new era, unveiling a bold new brand for the first time in nearly a decade, recapturing its original spirit as a leading curator of exceptional experiences, entertainment, and tourism in Australia.

The campaign, Here’s Where Things Get Interesting, is live nationally across television, outdoor, print, and social media, and marks a public shift from a casino and hotel to a world-class entertainment destination.    

Informed by extensive research and stakeholder engagement, the new campaign addresses overwhelming national feedback for Crown to bring joy, energy, and life into its cities, and to reinvigorate the experiences guests and visitors have. The research also indicated that Australians want to visit a place where they feel connected to others as well as the city itself; somewhere with an atmosphere and a vibe they can immerse themselves in and safely enjoy.

The new direction centres around creating joyfully elevated experiences for the communities in which Crown operates and is a playful spin on Crown’s long held reputation as the home of all things interesting – entertainment, awards nights, celebrity sightings, weddings, gala events, birthdays, TV broadcasts, and just about everything in between. 

The first phase of Here’s Where Things Get Interesting begins with an integrated advertising campaign supported by a program of joyfully elevated events across Sydney, Melbourne and Perth across sport, music, art, dining, and entertainment. 

Tomorrow evening, Crown Melbourne will host the AFL’s Brownlow Medal in its Palladium ballroom, while in October it will make its return to the Birdcage Enclosure at this year’s Melbourne Cup Carnival. Later this month Crown will host renowned sushi master Masami Ouchi from Nobu Japan for a residency at Nobu Melbourne, followed by the arrival of NYC-born mezcal and tequila bar, Ghost Donkey. Crown Perth will be alive with musicals and art this summer with the internationally acclaimed exhibition Monet in Paris, the Australian premier of Chicago, then Tina: The Tina Turner Musical, followed by & Juliet the musical.

Crown is also the Australian presenting partner for the Taylor Swift I The Eras Tour in Sydney and Melbourne, with Crown Metropol Melbourne set to transform into a hub of Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour themed activity through activations and consumer promotions. 

Crown Resorts CEO Ciarán Carruthers said: “Today marks an exciting new chapter in Crown’s history. Our reimagined Crown brand presents an opportunity to build a culture and character that enriches our cities through tourism, employment, world-class entertainment, hospitality, retail, and dining experiences.

“Over the last two years, we have worked very hard as a business to set Crown on a path to fundamentally change for the better. Upon opening, Crown was renowned as the home of all things interesting, and the place that makes the ordinary extraordinary. With new owners, new management, a new strategy, a new visual identity, and a new experience, we will do so again.

“To us, ‘interesting’ is the promise of something unique, elevated, unexpected, and memorable. ‘Interesting’ jolts you from the mundane. Our research told us that Australians expect that from Crown. As we move forward, interesting experiences will be a critical part of our strategy to energise our cities and supercharge Australia’s tourism revival.

“The leadership of this campaign is testament to Danielle Keighery and her team, who have breathed new life into the Crown brand and helped set the company up for future success. Ahead of her upcoming departure from Crown, I’d like to thank Danielle for her enormous contribution and wish her all the best for her future,” added Mr Carruthers. 

Led by Chief Brand & Corporate Affairs Officer, Danielle Keighery, the new brand direction was created in partnership with pre-eminent Australian brand and creative agency, The Monkeys part of Accenture Song, and is supported by a tailored multi-channel media strategy and launch plan via leading global media agency, Initiative Australia. It centres around interesting and elevated moments across Crown’s entertainment venues, globally recognised restaurants, and luxury accommodation facilities.

To view the new brand assets, click here or visit www.crownresorts.com.au

To view the brand advertisement, visit links below:

• Melbourne: https://vimeo.com/867033716/d5945d8de2 
• Perth: https://vimeo.com/867033735/5414613232
• Sydney: https://vimeo.com/867033752/2ef5166e42

- Broadened support for players with a focus on preventing gambling harm
- Introduction of four key priority areas designed to maximise player safety
- Crown PlaySafe to progressively replace Responsible Gaming
- New gambling harm research and policy team led by Dr Jamie Wiebe

28 July 2023: Crown Resorts (Crown) has today introduced Crown PlaySafe as part of expanded reforms to reduce gambling harm within its Australian resorts.

The plan forms part of the company’s Future Crown transformation program and aims to broaden the company’s focus from identifying and supporting those experiencing gambling harm to preventing it from happening in the first place.

The plan includes a renewed focus on player wellbeing and care, a new Crown PlaySafe approach, and the establishment of a dedicated gambling research and policy team which has been led by public health research expert Dr Jamie Wiebe since March 2022.

Maximising Player Safety

Crown PlaySafe includes several actions and initiatives designed to maximise player safety, including a commitment to acting across four priority areas:

- Building a safer gambling future, with a focus on prevention and safer play – when we build and develop our gambling products and safety programs, we do so in a way that learns from successful prevention and harm reduction strategies.
- Building a safer gambling culture, with care for the community – working in partnership with government and our regulators, education providers, businesses and industry, and community-based organisations to create a more culturally relevant approach to preventing gambling harm.
- Building a safer gambling environment, with expanded support for vulnerable or at-risk players – combining technology and data to implement mandatory carded-play and pre-commitment systems, marketing guardrails, training improvements and other gambling safety features to identify early signs of gambling harm and educate guests to play safely.
- Building a safer gambling system, to improve our understanding of player behaviour - investing in research and data monitoring, testing new harm reduction concepts and ideas, sharing and collaborating with our guests, industry experts and critics to design positive and safe player experiences.

Initiatives currently being introduced include mandatory carded-play and pre-commitment systems at Crown Melbourne, cashless gaming on electronic table games at Crown Sydney, $10 maximum bet limits on electronic gaming machines at Crown Perth, and a new Resorts-wide online self-exclusion portal. 

Crown PlaySafe Approach

With a focus on prevention, qualitative and quantitative research was undertaken to ensure Crown PlaySafe and its approach had the most impact among those who play within Crown’s Australian resorts.

Importantly, Crown PlaySafe was developed in a way that removed stigma by creating an environment where guests understood the role of Crown PlaySafe and the preventative support measures available to them.

Crown will progressively move away from ‘Responsible Gambling’ to Crown PlaySafe in the year ahead and rollout a new website, logo, colours, language and purpose statement. Crown will also rename position titles across the company and its responsible gaming centres.

New gambling harm research and policy team

Led by gambling harm research and policy specialist Dr Jamie Wiebe, Crown will invest in best practice gambling harm prevention strategies that prioritise player wellbeing and care.

The team will also develop a new knowledge exchange hub for business and industry including awareness and prevention education tools, testing of safer gambling concepts and research, and events and seminars to promote safer, more positive player experiences.

Under new leadership, Crown has invested over $13 million in gambling harm prevention and support, as well as doubled the size of its Crown PlaySafe team in the last 12 months.

Commentary

Crown Resorts Chief Executive Officer Ciarán Carruthers said Crown’s vision is to be a worldleader in gambling harm prevention through best practice actions and initiatives that create a safe and enjoyable entertainment experience for our guests.

“We know that we can do more to maximise player safety, which is why Crown is scaling up all efforts to introduce these world-leading initiatives that help to educate and support guests to play in a positive and safe way.

“The plan addresses new and emerging challenges associated with gambling harm, including how we improve our understanding of gambling participation and develop new harm reduction concepts and ideas.

“With a focus on collaboration and engagement with government, industry and community-based partners, I am confident that together we can reduce gambling harm and create a safer gambling future for all Australians,” Mr Carruthers said.

Crown Resorts Group Executive General Manager Responsible Gambling Dr Jamie Wiebe said tackling gambling harm is complex and there are often many factors at play. 

“While our knowledge and understanding of gambling harm has deepened over the years, the introduction of new reforms and expanded support for vulnerable or at-risk players will make it easier for guests to manage and play within their personal limits.

“Gambling safety features like mandatory carded-play, time and spend limits, and online selfexclusion are some of the many tools being implemented to support guests to play safely,” said Dr Wiebe.

Crown PlaySafe was developed in consultation with gambling harm experts and industry, and informed by research into prevention, early intervention, and management of gambling behaviour.

Notes to Editor:
- Crown’s new online self-exclusion portal allows guests to self-exclude themselves from our casinos and opt out of receiving marketing material without the need to visit one of Crown’s Responsible Gaming Centres. Guests can access the portal from any Crown Resorts website.
- Crown has completed technology upgrades and the implementation of the Victorian Government’s card-based pre-commitment scheme, YourPlay, which will become mandatory on all 2,628 Electronic Gaming Machines at Crown Melbourne this December. More than 50,000 registered players are using the scheme today.
- Crown has completed technology upgrades and the implementation of cashless gaming on Electronic Table Games at its VIP casino in Sydney. Crown Sydney has also invested in automation to improve customer onboarding; due diligence checks and improved harm minimisation programs.
- Crown has expanded its support for vulnerable and at-risk players through the completion of technology upgrades and implementation of $10 maximum betting limits on all 2,188 electronic gaming machines at Crown Perth.
- Crown is working to establish new community advisory panels in Victoria, Western Australia and New South Wales. The panels will help to support partnerships that improve gambling harm awareness and preventative community education programs.

11 July 2023: Crown Resorts Limited (Crown) acknowledges today’s judgement in the Federal Court in relation to the agreement between Crown and AUSTRAC that concludes civil penalty proceedings commenced by AUSTRAC in the Federal Court in March 2022.

In accordance with the judgement, Crown Melbourne and Crown Perth will pay a combined civil penalty of $450 million in relation to historical contraventions of the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Act 2006.

Crown Resorts CEO Ciarán Carruthers said the Federal Court judgement brings to an end the historical AML/CTF failures at Crown.

“Under new ownership and leadership, we have introduced sweeping reforms as part of our Future Crown transformation program and invested tens of millions to bolster financial crime compliance and embed global best practice for the gaming sector.

“There is no place for money laundering or terrorism financing at Crown or in our communities.”

Notes to Editor:

Media Release - 30 May 2023: Crown Resorts and AUSTRAC reach agreement on AML/CTF proceedings.

Financial Crime Transformation Progress:
- invested more than $40 million to bolster our financial crime compliance, with further significant investment committed for future financial years; 
- expanded our Financial Crime and Compliance team by adding approximately 170 people, including professionals from the banking sector, other gaming organisations, regulators, and law enforcement agencies, in Australia and internationally;
- undertaken a significant uplift in financial crime training and staff awareness, including developing and facilitating training to all board members and senior management
- adopted a new joint AML/CTF program in November 2020, ensuring a consistent, groupwide approach to the identification, mitigation and management of these risks. New versions of this program have been adopted and implemented in 2021, 2022 and 2023 and have been informed by two enterprise-wide risk assessments;
- implemented significantly improved financial crime reporting to Crown’s Boards;  
- applied a stricter and more conservative risk appetite with respect to customer and transaction types;
- improved controls to prevent and detect money laundering through Crown’s bank accounts and enhancing controls and reducing limits relating to cash deposits at our casinos;
- reset and enhanced relationships with AUSTRAC and law enforcement; demonstrating leadership and engagement with industry peers in relation to AML/CTF risk management;
- invested in automation, with a new automated transaction monitoring system and digitised tool to allow electronic submission and investigation of Unusual Activity Reports; and
- conducted ongoing external assurance and review of the Joint AML/CTF Program or aspects of AML/CTF compliance, with Crown accepting recommendations and incorporating them into its program of reform.

Responsible Gambling Transformation Progress:
- Responsible Gambling is a key component of Crown’s Future Crown transformation program. 
- We have been working collaboratively with our regulators on world-class reforms that once implemented will put Crown on a path to industry best practice when it comes to reducing and preventing gambling-related harm.  
- This includes the implementation of our new and enhanced approach to responsible gambling which aims to encourage a safer, more positive gambling culture for all.   
- To give you an indication of the extent of changes on the RSG front, our RSG function at Crown Melbourne has increased its overall staffing levels by nearly 80% in the past 18 months, and more than doubled across Crown Resorts, with more to come. 
- The approach puts harm reduction and guest wellbeing at its core, and includes evaluation and monitoring impacts; Building a Safer Gambling Environment, a Safer Gambling Future, Safer Gambling Culture and Safer Gambling System.

23 June 2023: Crown has entered an enforceable undertaking with the Fair Work Ombudsman after rectifying legacy award interpretation and record keeping issues for approximately 200 employees.

Crown takes its obligations as an employer seriously and self-reported to the Fair Work Ombudsman in 2020 following a comprehensive payroll review.

Crown has apologised and made backpayments to those impacted by the issue.

Since the errors were identified, Crown continues to focus on reviewing its payroll processes and is investing in upgrading its workforce management systems and strengthening its compliance framework.

As part of the Enforceable Undertaking signed with the Fair Work Ombudsman, Crown will make a contrition payment and has committed to independent audits for the next three years to ensure ongoing compliance.

*Please attribute this statement to a Crown Resorts spokesperson

21 June 2023: Crown Resorts (Crown) has been announced as the Australian Presenting Partner of Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour, taking place in Melbourne and Sydney in February 2024.

To mark the occasion, Crown will be hosting a Swifties High Tea at Crown Melbourne’s The Waiting Room today, where a number of her fans will be waited on by Crown’s butlers and treated to chai spiced cookies and tea.

Preparations are already underway to welcome global superstar, Taylor Swift, Down Under for the first time since 2018. Crown Metropol Melbourne is set to transform into a hub of Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour themed activity, through activations and consumer promotions.

Crown Melbourne CEO Mike Volkert said: “Crown is so excited to be the Presenting Partner of Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour, which is easily one of the most anticipated concert tours in recent memory.

“Entertainment is part of Crown’s DNA, and we are proud to play a role in bringing this tour to Australia, which will have a significant and positive impact on the Melbourne and Sydney economies.

“For those travelling to Melbourne for the tour, our exclusive Crown Metropol Hotel packages go on sale at 9am today, giving fans the ultimate Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour experience throughout their stay, and we look forward to hosting them at Crown.

“Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour – presented by Crown will be something you won’t want to miss,” Mr Volkert said.

For more information, including where to book Crown Metropol Hotel Packages, please visit:
https://www.crownhotels.com.au/melbourne/crown-metropol/hotel-offers

16 June 2023: Crown Melbourne accepts the outcome from the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission which was identified within the Victorian Royal Commission.

These historical breaches, decisions and actions have no place at Crown, and under new ownership and leadership, we are committed to an open, constructive, and transparent relationship with our regulators and stakeholders, as well as improving internal controls and our regulatory reporting requirements.

Our Future Crown program is driving whole-of-company reform and we are focused on building a Crown that exceeds the expectations of our stakeholders and the community.

This practice ceased in 2021 and Crown has since made the required payments to meet its casino tax obligations.

*Please attribute this statement to a Crown Melbourne CEO Mike Volkert

Melbourne, 30 May 2023: Crown Resorts Limited (Crown) has today reached an agreement with AUSTRAC, subject to Federal Court approval, to resolve civil penalty proceedings relating to historical non-compliance with anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing (AML/CTF) laws at Crown Melbourne and Crown Perth.

Under the agreement, the parties have today:
- filed with the Federal Court a Statement of Agreed Facts and Admissions
- proposed to the Court that Crown Melbourne and Crown Perth pay a combined civil penalty of $450 million in relation to admitted historical contraventions of the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Act 2006.

The agreement is subject to Federal Court approval. It is expected that the Court consider the proposed settlement, including the proposed penalty, at a hearing on 10 and 11 July 2023.

Crown Resorts CEO Ciarán Carruthers said: "First and foremost, I want to reiterate that these historical failings were unacceptable and on behalf of Crown Resorts, our new owners and leadership, I apologise for the failings of the past.

“Today marks a significant step in the process and we are pleased to have reached this agreement with AUSTRAC, noting that it is still subject to consideration and approval by the Federal Court and we await that decision.

“The company that committed these unacceptable, historic breaches is far removed from the company that exists today. The Crown of today is committed to harm minimisation and becoming the world leader in the delivery of safe gambling and entertainment. To achieve this, we are focused on Future Crown, our multi-year transformation program, which is delivering whole-of-company reform and building a Crown that exceeds the expectations of our stakeholders and community. We take seriously the responsibility we have to the community, to law enforcement, to our industry and stakeholders to ensure that we continue to comply with our AML/CTF obligations.

“There is no place for money laundering or terrorism financing at Crown or anywhere within our communities, and we will continue to invest in developing a sophisticated and robust framework, supported by the right capabilities to combat this illegal behaviour. We are committed to implementing these reforms to make Crown a better business and lift the standards for the entire industry,” Mr Carruthers said.

Since our commitment in October 2020 to strengthen our systems and processes in regulatory compliance to embed global best practice for the gaming sector, Crown has introduced sweeping reforms, working constructively and cooperatively every step of the way with AUSTRAC and our State regulators.

This includes:
- investing more than $40 million to bolster our financial crime compliance, with further significant investment committed for future financial years; 
- expanding our Financial Crime and Compliance team by adding approximately 170 people, including professionals from the banking sector, other gaming organisations, regulators, and law enforcement agencies, in Australia and internationally; 
- undertaking a significant uplift in financial crime training and staff awareness, including developing and facilitating training to all board members and senior management; 
- adopting a new joint AML/CTF program in November 2020, ensuring a consistent, groupwide approach to the identification, mitigation and management of these risks. New versions of this program have been adopted and implemented in 2021, 2022 and 2023 and have been informed by two enterprise-wide risk assessments; 
- implementing significantly improved financial crime reporting to Crown’s Boards;  applying a stricter and more conservative risk appetite with respect to customer and transaction types; 
- improving controls to prevent and detect money laundering through Crown’s bank accounts and enhancing controls and reducing limits relating to cash deposits at our casinos; 
- resetting and enhancing relationships with AUSTRAC and law enforcement;
- demonstrating leadership and engagement with industry peers in relation to AML/CTF risk management; 
- investing in automation, with a new automated transaction monitoring system and digitised tool to allow electronic submission and investigation of Unusual Activity Reports; and 
- conducting ongoing external assurance and review of the Joint AML/CTF Program or aspects of AML/CTF compliance, with Crown accepting recommendations and incorporating them into its program of reform. 

The Statement of Agreed Facts and Admissions can be found here.

27 April 2023: Crown Melbourne accepts the outcome from the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission.

These practices have ceased, and we have implemented significant improvements to reduce and prevent risk across our business.

Under new ownership and leadership, our Future Crown program is driving whole-of-company reform as we continue to uplift our culture and build a Crown that exceeds the expectations of our stakeholders and the community.

We will comply with the directions issued and work constructively with the VGCCC and the Government to address this and other issues raised as part of the Victorian Royal Commission.

*Please attribute this statement to a Crown Resorts spokesperson

05 April 2023: Crown uses the third-party file transfer service, GoAnywhere, which has been impacted by a data breach globally.

We were recently contacted by a ransomware group who claimed they had obtained a limited number of Crown files through GoAnywhere.

Today we can confirm that a small number of files have been released on the dark web, including employee time and attendance records and some membership numbers from Crown Sydney. We can confirm that no personal information of customers has been compromised as part of this breach.

We are proactively notifying all impacted individuals and are updating membership numbers of those affected out of an abundance of caution. Crown continues to work with law enforcement and our regulators in relation to this cybercrime.

* Please attribute this statement to a Crown Resorts spokesperson

Notes to Editor:

- The employee time and attendance files from Crown Sydney does not include bank names, tax IDs, BSB or payslip information. The data relates to current and former employees.
- The membership numbers are a number only, and do not contain any personal information of the customers.

03 April 2023 - Crown has been working collaboratively with the Victorian Government on these worldclass reforms and once implemented will put Crown on a path to industry best practice by reducing and preventing gambling-related harm. We will now work at pace to train our team members and embed the new Code.

This work builds on our whole-of-company transformation that has been underway for more than 18 months, as we continue to build a Crown that exceeds the expectations of our stakeholders and communities.

This includes the implementation of our new and enhanced approach to responsible gambling which aims to bring about a healthier, safer gambling culture for all.

This approach, which puts harm reduction and guest wellbeing at its centre, includes: evaluation and monitoring impacts; uptake of gambling safety features and technology; building a safer future; embedding a safer gambling culture; and building transparency and collaboration with our stakeholders.

* Please attribute this statement to a Crown Melbourne CEO Mike Volkert

27 March 2023 - Crown is one of many organisations who use the third-party file transfer service, GoAnywhere, which has been impacted by a data breach globally.

“We were recently contacted by a ransomware group who claim they have illegally obtained a limited number of Crown files. We are investigating the validity of this claim as a matter of priority.

“We can confirm no customer data has been compromised and our business operations have not been impacted.

“We are continuing to work with law enforcement and have notified our gaming regulators as part of the ongoing investigation and will provide relevant updates, as necessary.”

* Please attribute this statement to a Crown Resorts spokesperson

16 March 2023 - We acknowledge the WA Government’s response to the Perth Royal Commission and remain committed to working constructively with them, the Gaming and Wagering Commission and the independent monitor as we continue to implement the findings of the royal commission.

Under new ownership and management, our Future Crown program has accelerated whole-of-company reform and is transforming our business into a Crown that exceeds the expectations of our stakeholders and the community.

* Please attribute this statement to a Crown Resorts spokesperson

Nobu Crown Sydney to join a selection of Nobu restaurants worldwide to offer a Teishoku breakfast menu

Tuesday, 14 February 2023 - Sydney: The world’s most recognised Japanese restaurant, Nobu, at Crown Sydney will become the first in the country to offer a weekend Teishoku breakfast menu.

Commencing Sunday 19 February, Nobu Sydney will offer guests unique dishes such as Banana Miso, Scrambled Egg Donburi and Shiso Benedict, blending Japanese tradition with locally inspired produce. 

Crown Sydney Executive General Manager of Non-Gaming, Mark Holmes, said: “Nobu’s signature flair is renowned around the globe, and we’re excited to bring his breakfast dining experience to Sydney.

“As the first Australian outpost for Nobu breakfast, the team at Crown Sydney is looking forward to welcoming local food lovers and offering our domestic and international guests something unique and delicious for their weekend breakfast.

“With the addition of Nobu, Crown Sydney caters to a range of preferences for breakfast, from The Waiting Room to the internationally recognised Epicurean experience,” he said.

Head Chef at Nobu Sydney, Harold Hurtada, was honoured to work closely with Nobu Matsuhisa on the Teishoku breakfast menu during his recent visit to the restaurant in September 2022.

“It is an honour and privilege to be the first Nobu in Australia to be serving Nobu’s signature Teishoku breakfast menu. I know Sydneysiders and guests of Crown Sydney will appreciate this coup and enjoy the breakfast dining experience, in addition to our already popular lunch and dinner services,” said Hurtada.

Boasting contemporary Japanese cuisine, Nobu has gained a worldwide following and myriad of global accolades. The story of Nobu began in 1987 when Nobu opened his namesake restaurant, Matsuhisa, in Beverly Hills to rave reviews. It was here that his long-time friendship and business relationship with Robert De Niro began. At De Niro’s urging, they opened Nobu in New York City in 1994 which was an instant success. Nobu has become arguably the most successful culinary collaboration in Hollywood history. 

Nobu opened at Crown Sydney in December 2020 to an incredible reception from Sydney diners, with the venue booked out on weekends for months in advance. The new breakfast menu is set to take the Nobu Crown Sydney offering to new heights. 

Breakfast bookings are essential and can be made via crownsydney.com.au/indulge/nobu from today, Tuesday 14 February. 

Notes to the Editor:

ABOUT CROWN SYDNEY

Since opening in December 2020, Crown Sydney has quickly established itself as one of the city’s most sought after dining and staycation destinations with its array of world-class restaurants and bars overlooking Sydney Harbour, including Nobu. Boasting a compelling national footprint, visitors and Sydneysiders alike have access to an unprecedented array of luxurious offerings. The Barangaroo property includes the deluxe Crown Spa Sydney, 349 hotel rooms and suites, luxury residential apartments, nine signature restaurants and bars, premium retail outlets, pool facilities and more. 

Guests are treated to unrivalled views of Sydney Harbour’s icons and with its unique architectural, concentric form, Crown Sydney has been designed to stand alongside them as another defining landmark of the city. Now a globally recognisable landmark, Crown Sydney attracts thousands of national and international tourists, helping Sydney compete with other global tourism destinations for business, leisure, and sporting events. 

ABOUT NOBU

Nobu, the world-renowned Japanese restaurant recognised for pioneering a new-style Japanese cuisine, started as a business partnership in 1994 between Chef Nobu Matsuhisa and his partners: actor Robert De Niro, producer Meir Teper, and restaurateur Drew Nieporent. 

Originating in New York as the flagship restaurant, the Nobu brand is now an empire with 51 locations that spans across five continents, with international locations in London, Tokyo, Hong Kong, Milan, the Bahamas, Melbourne, Dubai, Cape Town, Mexico City, Budapest, Perth, Monte Carlo, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Doha, Marbella, Ibiza, Los Cabos, Barcelona, Montenegro, Riyadh, Warsaw ,Barbuda, Sydney, Istanbul, Jeddah, Singapore, and Marrakech and national locations in Las Vegas, Malibu, Miami Beach, Dallas, San Diego, Los Angeles, Honolulu, Lana’i, Newport Beach, Palo Alto, Washington DC, Houston, Scottsdale, Chicago, Atlantic City, and Atlanta.

Nobu continues to attract fans worldwide for its enduring atmosphere and continuous reinvention of genre-defining cuisine. Learn more at noburestaurants.com and follow @NobuRestaurants on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

For more information about Crown Sydney, please visit crownsydney.com.au.

12 December 2022 – Experienced integrated resorts executive David Tsai has commenced in the role of CEO at Crown Perth, formally welcomed to the company with a traditional smoking ceremony led by Noongar man Dr Richard Walley OAM, on Crown Perth’s Great Lawn.
 
Mr Tsai is a highly respected leader and brings nearly two decades of integrated resorts experience to Crown Perth, having spent over 15 years with global hospitality and entertainment group, MGM Resorts International.
 
In his new role, Mr Tsai will lead Crown Perth’s remediation action plan and work with the newly appointed Independent Monitor, Paul Steel, to implement the recommendations of the Perth Casino Royal Commission. 
 
Crown Resorts CEO Ciarán Carruthers said: “David is well placed to lead Crown Perth through its next phase and steps into the role as CEO at a pivotal moment in its history. 
 
“David’s passion for instigating true cultural change will have an enormous effect and I look forward to working with him and the team at Crown Perth to create exceptional experiences for our guests in Western Australia.”
 
Crown Perth CEO David Tsai said: “Today is the start of a wonderful journey for me at Crown Perth, and I couldn’t be more excited to be here. Across the industry, Crown Perth stands proud as a world-class property, with premium restaurants, luxury accommodation and exceptional entertainment. 
 
“I am deeply committed to delivering on our reform and remediation plan and cultural transformation, and ensuring Crown achieves its ambition of becoming a world leader in the delivery of safe and responsible gaming and entertainment. 
 
“I’m privileged by the opportunity to lead our more than 6,000 team members at Crown Perth and share in their understanding and passion for creating exceptional experiences for our guests.”
 
For news vision from today's smoking ceremony welcome and images, please click here.

31 October 2022 – We are aware of an incident involving a contractor and the privacy of a guest at Crown Perth. 

The safety and privacy of our guests is our number one priority, and we are incredibly disappointed this incident has occurred. 

We unreservedly apologise to the guest involved and will continue to take the necessary steps to ensure this remains an isolated incident. 

We have zero tolerance for this behaviour, and it falls well below the standards we set for our team members and contractors. 

Crown took immediate steps to rectify the issue, including launching an investigation, standing down the individuals involved and removing them from the Crown account. The original video was also swiftly removed from the social media platform. 

We are also cooperating with the Indian Cricket team and the International Cricket Council to 
convey our apologies and will continue to work with them as we progress our investigation.


* Please attribute statement to a Crown Resorts spokesperson

15 October 2022 - Crown Resorts Limited (Crown) has today announced the appointment of integrated resorts executive David Tsai as CEO of Crown Perth, subject to regulatory approval.

Mr Tsai is a highly respected leader and brings nearly two decades of integrated resorts experience to Crown Perth, having spent the last 15 years with global hospitality and entertainment group, MGM Resorts International™.

Most recently, David served as President Midwest Group at MGM Resorts International, where he led overall strategic direction and day-to-day operations of MGM Grand Detroit (in Detroit, Michigan) and MGM Northfield Park (in Northfield, Ohio). The resorts comprise of hundreds of hotel rooms and suites, 25 restaurants and bars, two casinos and premium gaming areas, and large-scale conference and theatre facilities.

Mr Tsai also held the role of President and COO at MGM’s Gold Strike Casino Resort in Tunica, Mississippi and was SVP and Chief Financial Officer at the Monte Carlo Resort and Casino in Las Vegas. During his four-year tenure at the Monte Carlo Resort and Casino he helped to lead the USD$550M transformation of the resort to the luxurious, Park MGM and NoMad Las Vegas.

Earlier in his career, Mr Tsai worked for McKinsey & Company and held senior strategy and finance roles, including management and leadership positions for Aria Resort and Casino Las Vegas, the CityCenter Group.

Crown Resorts CEO Ciarán Carruthers said: “Crown Perth is a world-class property and David is a world-class leader with a proven track record and deep experience in global hospitality and entertainment. I’m delighted to welcome him to the team.

“As CEO of Crown Perth, David will lead our remediation action plan in Western Australia and work with the Crown Perth Board and the newly appointed Independent Monitor, Paul Steel, to implement the recommendations of the Perth Casino Royal Commission.
“I am confident that under his leadership we will continue that important work and achieve our ambition to be a world-leader in the delivery of safe and responsible gaming and entertainment.”

Mr Tsai said: “Crown Perth is renowned for its outstanding facilities, entertainment, premium restaurants and luxury accommodation. What I am most excited about is its reputation for delivering exceptional service by a team of 6,000 talented and dedicated people.
“I look forward to joining the team and working alongside them to deliver the reform and remediation plans and creating memorable experiences for our customers.”

Mr Tsai will commence in the role of Crown Perth CEO later this year.

Melbourne, July 7, 2022 –  Crown Resorts Limited (Crown) has today announced Mr Steve McCann will step down as CEO of Crown Resorts and CEO of Crown Melbourne. Mr Ciarán Carruthers has been appointed CEO of Crown Resorts (subject to probity approval) commencing in September and will work through a transitionary period with Mr McCann. Further senior appointments including the CEO of Crown Melbourne and CEO of Crown Perth will be announced in due course.

Mr McCann has been CEO since June 2021 and during that time has overseen an organisational and management restructure; implemented a comprehensive culture change program centered on a revised purpose and values as well as transparency with regulators; realised significant operational improvements; achieved approval for Crown Sydney to commence gaming operations; and completed the sale of the business to Blackstone.

Mr Carruthers is a highly regarded global gaming and hospitality executive with proven experience running some of the world’s largest integrated luxury resorts and gaming facilities. He brings more than 30 years’ experience to Crown, having built his career with large US gaming and integrated resort companies operating in some of the most highly regulated gaming jurisdictions in the world. Currently, he is at Wynn Macau Limited, where he is responsible for overseeing all operations at Wynn Macau, including gaming. Prior to this, he was the Senior Vice President and Director of the Venetian and Plaza Operations for Sands China Limited. He has also held several senior operational roles at casino resorts in Southeast Asia, the Philippines, and the US Pacific Islands. 
 
Blackstone’s Head of Real Estate Australia, Chris Tynan, said: “We thank Steve for his leadership over the last 13 months, including implementing a strong reform and remediation plan and improving the culture of Crown Resorts. We wish the best for him as he pursues other opportunities. 
 
“Blackstone is committed to investing in Crown, helping it realise its true potential as a world-class leader in travel and leisure. Part of that involves bringing in global expertise to complement the existing skills within the business. Ciarán Carruthers is a highly experienced and respected industry veteran who shares our commitment to continuing the transformation at Crown and delivering an exceptional experience for all visitors,” Mr Tynan said.

Steve McCann said: “I am incredibly proud of what has been achieved at Crown over the past 13 months, through the tireless efforts of our 20,000 team members who have laid the foundations for Crown’s next chapter. 

“I came into this role at a very challenging time for Crown and I will leave Crown proud that we have made a positive impact on the future of this business. I’d like to thank the hardworking Board members of Crown who have provided me tremendous support, as well as every member of the team who has contributed their important part.  

“Crown is an incredible place – from its properties to its product and its people. It has been an honour to be part of the team and I look forward to seeing Crown’s continued success as part of the Blackstone family and under the stewardship of Ciarán, who have my full support in their vision to help Crown realise its full potential,” Mr McCann said. 

Ciarán Carruthers said: “I have been following Crown’s journey for some time now and am excited to join the company at a significant moment in its history. The reform, remediation and cultural transformation that have occurred under Steve’s leadership have been extraordinary, and I would like to congratulate him and his team for what they have achieved to date. I am committed to continuing that important work to ensure Crown achieves its ambition to be a world-leader in the delivery of safe and responsible gaming. 

“I am extremely passionate about our industry and providing customers with exceptional entertainment and hospitality experiences. I have stayed at Crown many times and know how dedicated and customer-focused its people are, and I’m looking forward to working closely with them, along with the Governments, regulators, unions and customers as Crown enters this new era. 

“On a personal level, my family has called Australia home for nearly 20 years, and it has always been close to my heart. We are looking forward to beginning this new chapter in Melbourne,” Mr Carruthers said. 

Crown has also announced some key Board Director appointments made to date, bringing a wide array of experiences to Crown, including: 

• Bill McBeath has been appointed Chairman of the Crown Resorts Limited Board. Bill was most recently CEO of The Cosmopolitan Las Vegas. 

• John Borghetti AO has been appointed Chairman of the Crown Sydney Board. John spent over 8 years as CEO and Managing Director of Virgin Australia and is currently on the board of a number of companies including Alinta Energy and Brisbane Airport Corporation. 

• John Van Der Wielen has been appointed Chairman of Burswood Limited. John was previously CEO of HBF Health, a leading Australian not-for-profit health provider, and currently serves on the Boards of Royal Flying Doctor Service, and the Advisory Board of the University of Western Australia’s Business School.
   

Additional Board appointments (all subject to probity review and approval), which reflect Blackstone’s commitment to diversity on its portfolio company boards, will be made in due course.

9 November 2021 – Crown Resorts has today announced the appointment of renowned hotelier and experienced Asia Pacific executive, Simon McGrath, to the role of Chief Executive Officer, Crown Sydney and Crown Resorts Group Head of Hospitality.

Currently the Chief Executive Officer of Accor Pacific, Mr McGrath has over three decades experience across the Pacific region. At Accor Pacific, Mr McGrath is responsible for over 397 hotels across the region and 18,000 employees. Prior to his current role, Mr McGrath held senior executive positions in hotel groups including Southern Pacific Hotels (SPHC) and Rydges Hotel Group.

Mr McGrath has also been recognised for his contribution to the hospitality industry with numerous awards, including inclusion in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for his significant work in the promotion of Australian tourism internationally.

Opening almost a year ago, Crown Sydney has quickly established itself as Sydney’s premier dining and hotel resort precinct. As the harbour city’s only truly six star luxury hotel resort, it is well positioned as a key asset in re-establishing Sydney as a major global hub for international tourism and major events as COVID-19 travel restrictions begin to ease internationally and the sector recovers.

In his role, Mr McGrath will be responsible for strategic oversight of all operations, marketing, branding and business development for the premium resort, which includes a Crown Towers hotel with 349 guest rooms, luxury residences, retail outlets, pool, spa and conferencing facilities as well as an array of acclaimed premium restaurants including: Nobu, a’Mare, Woodcut and Oncore, which is the first restaurant outside of the United Kingdom by Michelin starred chef Clare Smyth and opens November 18, 2021.

In addition to the role of CEO of Crown Sydney, Mr McGrath will also take on the role of Crown Resorts Group Head of Hospitality. This role will see him play a strategic advisory and leadership role to enhance customer experience and ensure continuous innovation remains at the centre of the Group’s strategy across all three Crown Resorts properties.

According to Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Crown Resorts, Steve McCann, Mr McGrath’s appointment is well timed with Crown Sydney gearing up to help rebuild international tourism with a new asset designed to attract the lucrative, high-end luxury segment of the market.

“We are pleased to have attracted such a respected industry leader to Crown. Simon’s international credentials means he brings to Crown Sydney an unparalleled understanding of the operation of luxury hotels and global hospitality businesses,” Mr McCann said.

“While it’s been incredible to see Sydneysiders embrace Crown Sydney over the last year, it’s now time for the world to experience it, and for us to use this great asset to help market ourselves as a prime destination in a very competitive market. This resort was built to compete with the best in the world and set a new benchmark for luxury experience and service. Under Simon’s stewardship we look forward to seeing Crown Sydney exceed its potential.”

Mr McGrath will be commencing in February 2022 and is the latest in a series of key executive appointments made at Crown Resorts this year as part of its significant business transformation program led by Crown Resorts CEO and Managing Director, Steve McCann.

This includes Chief Corporate Affairs and Brand Officer, Danielle Keighery; Chief Compliance and Financial Crime Officer, Steven Blackburn; Chief of Staff, Jeannie Mok; Group General Counsel, Betty Ivanoff; Chief People & Culture Officer, Tony Weston; and Executive General Manager of Transformation and Regulatory Response, Nick Weeks.

4 November 2021 – As part of its ongoing business transformation, Crown Resorts has today announced the appointment of seasoned Corporate Affairs and Marketing professional Danielle Keighery into the newly created role of Chief Corporate Affairs and Brand Officer for Crown Resorts.

Currently the Chief Customer Officer at Bank of Queensland Group, Ms Keighery also spent 16 years at Virgin Enterprises and Virgin Australia Group in senior executive roles across Corporate Affairs, Brand, Marketing and Customer Experience.

Commencing early in 2022, Ms Keighery will lead Crown’s brand and reputation work across all touchpoints and align its corporate affairs, public relations, government relations, brand, sponsorship, media and all corporate communications functions under her stewardship.

Ms Keighery brings to the role more than 20 years’ experience leading integrated corporate and public affairs, customer, and marketing functions for some of the world’s largest and most high-profile companies in the aviation, telco, media and wealth management sectors.

In her current role at Bank of Queensland Group, Ms Keighery has led the rebuild of the corporate affairs and marketing functions, and the design and implementation of a customer transformation program for the BOQ Group of brands.

Crown Resorts CEO Steve McCann said Keighery’s appointment is the latest in a series of key hires to the new executive team, and is an important step in enhancing the way Crown communicates with stakeholders right across the board.

“Danielle’s experience in high profile, highly regulated and complex industries makes her a perfect fit for Crown Resorts. As part of our transformation we have committed to a more proactive approach with our stakeholders to rebuild trust as well as equity in our brand more broadly. Danielle’s unique experience makes her perfectly placed to drive this and we look forward to her joining the executive team early in the new year.”

Ms Keighery is the latest in a series of key executive appointments made at Crown Resorts this year as part of its significant business transformation program led by Crown Resorts CEO Steve McCann.

This includes Chief Compliance and Financial Crime Officer, Steven Blackburn; Group General Counsel, Betty Ivanoff; Chief People & Culture Officer, Tony Weston; and Executive General Manager of Transformation and Regulatory Response, Nick Weeks. 

November 1 2021 – One of Australia’s largest hospitality employers, Crown Resorts, has today confirmed that mandatory COVID-19 vaccinations will apply to all visitors to Crown Resorts in NSW and Victoria, including their employees, customers and contractors. Crown Perth consultation on the implementation of the Policy is expected to be finalised shortly.

This follows on from a month-long consultation period announced in September, which saw the company undertake stakeholder consultation with employees, unions, industry and business organisations.

While both Crown Sydney and Crown Melbourne are already complying with current Public Health Orders, this move confirms the company’s position on mandatory vaccination for its properties until further notice.

While the Policy will come into effect immediately in Sydney and Melbourne, Crown Perth will have until January 31 to finalise and implement the Policy, which will be in line with Western Australian Public Health Directions.

Chief Executive Officer Crown Resorts and Crown Melbourne, Steve McCann, said that while COVID-19 remains in circulation in the community, it was critical for the business to take this step to limit the potential spread of COVID-19 at any of its resorts. The staggered introduction and consultation periods was also reflective of the different COVID-19 situations in place across Australia.

"Perth continues to enjoy an almost COVID-free environment and Government policy is still evolving, so we are not quite as advanced in our consultation. We need to finalise the methodology but our aim will be to achieve alignment across all of our resorts. From the start of the pandemic, we have promised our employees that we will always put their health and wellbeing first. This Policy is consistent with that – and consistent with our responsibility to care for not only our employees, but our guests, our partners and our investors interests.

“We had overwhelming support for this from our stakeholders and thank them for working with us so constructively. The mood has shifted in Australia over the last few months, and people are recognising that we all have a part to play. COVID-19 has been devastating on so many in the community, and our business has an important role to play here. We must do whatever is in our power to help limit the potential for further impact at our resorts – whether that be to our people, our guests or to business continuity,” he adds.

The news comes off the back of a vaccine incentive scheme announced by the company in September, with all Crown employees entitled to three hours paid leave for each vaccination they receive and an extra day of paid sick leave to all employees who need it following a vaccination. Employees that are already vaccinated or are currently stood-down, will receive a $50 gift voucher. Crown is now driving an extensive vaccine awareness and uptake campaign across all its properties.

27 October 2021 – Over the past seven years, the Crown Resorts Foundation (the Foundation) has been providing opportunities and support to hundreds of thousands of Australians. To date, the Foundation has donated over $62 million to hundreds of grant recipients from for-purpose organisations across Australia.
 
Today we proudly publish the Annual Review for the 2021 financial year which provides an overview of the programs the Foundation is supporting via the $100 million National Philanthropic Fund and highlights the programs and work that has been undertaken over the past year.
 
The programs supported by the Foundation aim to assist in providing more opportunities for young people to engage with their education, the arts and culture, and partner with organisations that encourage and foster social cohesion.
 
This year, despite the challenges posed by COVID-19 restrictions, the Foundation’s partners have touched many lives, providing:

• 2 million hours of educational programs for Indigenous students;

• 1,900 people with a disability in creative learning programs;

• 17,000 hours of teacher training in the arts delivered free of charge;

• 44,400 students with over 865,000 hours of creative learning programs; and

• $2.5 million for the Channel 7 Kids Telethon.

 
All students in Australia should have access to quality education. We have made Indigenous education a priority and this year our partners delivered almost 2 million program hours to over 3,500 Indigenous students. As well, over 110 teachers and community members will receive over 1,280 hours of specialised training.
 
COVID-19 has been devastating in disadvantaged communities. The difficulties posed by remote learning has been exacerbated by disadvantage. This will likely increase the education equity gap as students are not provided the stability offered from learning with their peers in classrooms and supported by teachers. As well, disengaged students are becoming more disconnected from their friends and communities.
 
Throughout 2020 and 2021, disruptions have meant that programs have had to be delivered virtually. This has raised the issue of digital access, content creation, safe spaces, and all the challenges that accompany lockdowns.
 
Bonnie Ashton, Crown Resorts Foundation – General Manager said;
 
”We are very proud of the outcomes our program partners are achieving across Australia. Despite the challenges of COVID-19, which are significantly exacerbated by disadvantage, our partners have found respectful and creative ways to ensure continuity for their students.
 
”We cannot thank them enough as they support the educational outcomes of so many otherwise marginalised members of our communities.”

31 October 2022 – We are aware of an incident involving a contractor and the privacy of a guest at Crown Perth. 

The safety and privacy of our guests is our number one priority, and we are incredibly disappointed this incident has occurred. 

We unreservedly apologise to the guest involved and will continue to take the necessary steps to ensure this remains an isolated incident. 

We have zero tolerance for this behaviour, and it falls well below the standards we set for our team members and contractors. 

Crown took immediate steps to rectify the issue, including launching an investigation, standing down the individuals involved and removing them from the Crown account. The original video was also swiftly removed from the social media platform. 

We are also cooperating with the Indian Cricket team and the International Cricket Council to 
convey our apologies and will continue to work with them as we progress our investigation.


* Please attribute statement to a Crown Resorts spokesperson

MELBOURNE: Crown Resorts Limited (ASX:CWN) (Crown) has today been notified by the Victorian Government that the Commissioner’s Report of the Royal Commission into the Casino Operator and Licence for Crown Melbourne (Report) has been publicly released after being tabled in the Victorian Parliament earlier today. The Victorian Government has also released its response in relation to the Report.

The Report can be accessed here and a copy of the Victorian Government’s response is attached.

Crown is currently reviewing the Report and the Victorian Government’s response.

Crown will work cooperatively and constructively with the Victorian Government in relation to the findings and recommendations of the Report and their response.

Crown Melbourne together with the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Australian Hotels Association (Victoria) set to provide free, paid hospitality training to 1,000 Victorians

October 15, 2021 – The hospitality sector is gearing up for reopening, with two leading industry associations and Victoria’s largest hospitality employer Crown Melbourne announcing a partnership designed to help ease the skills shortage affecting the hospitality sector, exacerbated by COVID-19.

In partnership with the Victorian Chamber and the AHA (Vic), Crown will offer a free-of-charge Food & Beverage Skills Pathway Program to train 1000 potential hospitality workers by July next year to help address the skills shortage in the industry, to support its COVID-19 recovery. Once the successful applicants complete the course, candidates will then be matched with businesses looking for skilled workers.

To apply, Victorians with an interest in starting a career in hospitality are urged to visit www.jobsinhospo.com.au

Successful applicants will be trained at the award-winning Crown College, and the chosen 1,000 will be paid while they attend the course. Now in its twenty fifth year of operation, Crown College is renowned as one of Australia’s largest and respected registered training organisations specialising in hospitality training.

Crown Melbourne Executive General Manager Food and Beverage, Enda Cunningham, says as the largest employer in the Victorian hospitality sector, Crown has an important role to help the Victorian industry boost its overall skill levels, and ensure hospitality continues to attract the talent it needs to in order to remain competitive and future-proof itself.

“COVID-19 has been incredibly hard on hospitality. The skill standard right across our industry ultimately benefits us all, and with the scale that we have at Crown and our training facilities – we are proud to be able to contribute and help the industry get back on track by skilling up a thousand workers.”

Victorian Chamber Chief Executive, Paul Guerra, says that delivering the skills early to ensure that the hospitality industry is ready for reopening will be instrumental in Victoria’s recovery.

“COVID-19 has devastated hospitality. Businesses have not just been forced to close for months on end; they also lost some of their best talent who were forced to look for work in other industries. Crown is known for its training standards and is a major hospitality employer in Australia. Providing that training for the rest of the industry to benefit will help lift the industry and kick-start its recovery.”

According to Australian Hotels Association (Victoria) CEO, Paddy O’Sullivan, the recovery of hospitality will be at the heart of Victoria’s recovery from COVID-19. “It’s important that as an industry we work together to ensure we have the talent in market and that talent is trained to the highest standards. Victoria and Melbourne particularly has always been the food and events capital of Australia – that is a mantle that is delivered by a strong hospitality industry. Investing in training that will benefit the entire industry is something we are keen to support.”

The course which is open to both metropolitan and regional based Victorians, will include the fundamentals of hospitality including food and beverage fundamentals, customer service, crockery and cutlery, handling and polishing, order taking, docket writing, service sequencing and cocktail making. The education will have a strong local flavour, with students also to be educated on the different provenance stories and strengths within Victoria’s regional areas, including wine and specialty foods renowned across various regions.

To apply please visit www.jobsinhospo.com.au

Monday, 11 October 2021. Crown Resorts announced today that the New South Wales Independent Liquor and Gaming Authority (ILGA) has granted new liquor licences to Crown Sydney Property Pty Ltd which will allow for the continued service of alcohol in non-gaming areas of Crown through to 30 June 2022.

Today we commence welcoming back hospitality workers and our guests to enjoy Crown Sydney’s worldclass hotel, restaurants, bars and recreation facilities, in line with the NSW Government’s roadmap for reopening and easing COVID-19 restrictions.

Crown continues to work through the consultation process with ILGA towards the opening of gaming at Crown Sydney.

A copy of the News Release made by ILGA is attached.

One of Australia’s largest hospitality employers, Crown Resorts, has today announced plans to urgently consult its stakeholders and employees regarding mandatory vaccination which could apply to all its staff and members of the public who plan to visit or stay at any of its resorts around Australia.

63% of respondents to a Crown employee survey last week supported the notion of mandatory vaccination within the hospitality sector – which has fuelled the company’s desire to undertake further consultation regarding a mandatory approach, to ensure that when lockdowns end and borders reopen, it is providing a safe working environment for the 20,000 people who work at its Australian Resorts.

Chief Executive Officer Crown Resorts (regulatory approvals pending) and Crown Melbourne, Steve McCann said while the company has been urging its employees to get vaccinated, now was the time to take a more proactive stance.

“At Crown, we care about creating a safe environment for our people and our customers. As such a significant hospitality employer in Australia with resorts that hosted over 30 million visits a year preCOVID, we need to take measures to help keep people safe. That starts with our employees but also extends to our guests and the broader community,” says McCann.

“This is about protecting every Australian – we want to create a safe environment for people to come to work, and also for our guests to come to enjoy themselves,” he adds.

The company has also announced incentives to make vaccination easier for employees in direct response to a survey of employees across its Melbourne, Sydney and Perth resorts which found that while 60% of respondents had already been fully vaccinated or received one dose, the majority of unvaccinated employees said paid leave would be the biggest incentive to get a vaccine.

As of this week, all Crown Resorts employees will now be entitled to three hours paid leave for each vaccination they receive. In addition, an extra day of paid sick leave will be provided to all employees for each vaccination, if they need it. Employees that are already vaccinated or are currently stooddown due to closures, will receive a $50 gift voucher. Crown is now driving an extensive vaccine awareness and uptake campaign across all its properties.

“COVID-19 has devastated the hospitality industry, and that has been felt acutely by our people. Supporting the vaccination target rates set by governments is going to help our industry reopen, stay Crown Resorts Limited ABN 39 125 709 953 8 Whiteman Street Southbank Victoria 3006 Australia Telephone +61 3 9292 8888 Facsimile +61 3 9292 6600 crownresorts.com.au open and recover faster so we will play our part to help our industry get there. We will continue to explore ways to make it faster and easier for our people to come back to work,” McCann says.

For the 5th year in a row in Melbourne, and the 2nd year in Perth, Crown Towers wins the coveted international rating by Forbes Travel Guide

17 February 2021 – Melbourne, Australia – Crown Towers has today again been awarded a global gold standard by the prestigious Forbes Travel Guide for its Perth and Melbourne properties – marking it as the only hotel group in Australia to win the award for multiple hotels – firmly establishing the brand as leaders in the luxury hotel accommodation market across Australia.
 
Awarded to only a handful an elite group of hotels around the world every year, this year’s award marks the fifth consecutive year for Crown Towers Melbourne and the second consecutive year for Crown Towers Perth.
 
Forbes Travel Guide is the only global rating system for luxury hotels and comprises almost 900 stringent standards, over 75% of which are related to service delivery. Great lengths are taken to record guest’s preferences to create a seamless experience — with Forbes Travel Guide inspectors having stayed anonymously for two nights and three days at each hotel to evaluate every detail of the visit.
 
Chief Executive Officer of Crown Sydney and Crown Hotels, Peter Crinis said he is proud to again see Crown Towers recognised by the global authority in luxury hospitality.
 
“We are honoured to see our properties in both Melbourne and Perth awarded the coveted Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star award. These hotels are designed to bring a world-class standard of luxury which is not just simply about having a great asset, but about the understated, intuitive world-class customer service that embodies a true luxury experience. We dedicate a lot of time investing in our employees and into our training programs – and I like to think we are setting a new benchmark for the industry as a whole. These are local hotels that compete with the best in the world – and that’s something we are truly proud of.”
 
Forbes Travel Guide Executive Vice President of Standards and Ratings, Amanda Frasier says it is an exceptional achievement for both properties to have consistently met hundreds of objective standards criteria, the most stringent requirements in the hospitality industry, to be awarded the Five-Star rating.
 
“What is truly incredible about these properties achieving a Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star rating is the people who deliver this first-class service - hundreds of employees trained in every aspect of the customer experience to not only meet the standards but exceed customer expectation,” Ms Frasier said. “Yes, you need a world-class luxurious asset to begin with – but service and experience comes down to people and impeccable training. It’s the attention to detail behind the scenes that you don’t see that elevate these properties to this level.”
 
Established in Melbourne over 25 years ago, Crown Towers has grown to become one of Australia’s leading hotel brands, with properties across Melbourne, Perth and most recently in Sydney.
 
In 2016, Crown Towers Perth was opened, setting a new benchmark for luxury accommodation in Perth and Western Australia. In December 2020, Crown Towers Sydney opened after four years of construction, and now offers unparalleled luxury accommodation in Sydney. With perfectly framed views of Sydney’s skyline, each room’s décor is designed to provide a sophisticated, modern backdrop that captures the essence of the hotel’s unique harbourside setting.