Amidst Perth’s COVID-19 shutdown, Crown Casino maintained its exclusive gaming areas, asserting compliance with governmental directives. Brian Lee, Crown’s Head of Security and Surveillance, informed the Royal Commission that throughout the late June and early July lockdown, the high-limit sections continued operations as venues were permitted to accommodate a maximum of 150 individuals. He drew parallels to dining and drinking establishments that were similarly authorized to function within the established capacity restrictions.
Nevertheless, this account diverges from a prior declaration made by Crown, released before the lockdown, which proclaimed the casino’s complete closure in accordance with governmental limitations.
Lee further addressed Crown’s approach to predatory lending, explaining that they identify and prohibit individuals engaged in such practices for a period of no less than two years. He stressed that usurious lending is impermissible and will not be condoned.
Upon inquiry regarding a customer’s continued access despite numerous allegations of predatory lending practices, Mr. Li stated that, although the events were examined, the primary criterion was the validity of the claims and the presence of any extenuating factors.