Terms of Reference - Inquiry by the Honourable Patricia Bergin SC under section 143 of the Casino Control Act 1992 (NSW)

Issued by the NSW Independent Liquor & Gaming Authority

The NSW Independent Liquor & Gaming Authority (ILGA) has published Terms of Reference for its inquiry into the Barangaroo restricted gaming facility granted to Crown Sydney Gaming Pty Limited (Licensee) pursuant to section 143 of the Casino Control Act 1992 (NSW) (Casino Control Act).

ILGA has appointed the Honourable Patricia Bergin SC to preside over the inquiry and to report on the following matters:

Part A – Melco Changes

• The share sale agreement between Melco Resorts & Entertainment Limited and CPH Crown Holdings Pty Ltd to acquire approximately 19.99% of the shares in Crown Resorts Limited.

Part B – Suitability Review

• The various allegations raised in recent media reports by the Nine Network, the Sydney Morning Herald and the Melbourne Age relating to Crown Resorts Limited and whether the Licensee remains a suitable person to hold a restricted gaming licence for the purposes of the Casino Control Act.

Part C – Regulatory Framework and Settings

• The efficacy of the primary objects of the Casino Control Act and ILGA’s ability to respond to the growing complexity of both extant and emerging risks for gaming and casinos.

The powers, authorities, protections and immunities of the Honourable Patricia Bergin SC are detailed in the Royal Commissions Act 1923 (NSW) and are similar to those conferred upon a commissioner.

A timetable for public submissions and hearings is being considered by the inquiry. If necessary announcements will be made at a future date regarding the processes of the inquiry, including how submissions can be made.

The Terms of Reference can be found here PDF, 216.36 KB.

Now that the Terms of Reference have been announced and the inquiry has been established, ILGA will not be commenting further.

ILGA has engaged Norton Rose Fulbright solicitors to assist with its conduct of the inquiry.

Media contact

Please direct all media enquiries in writing to ilga.secretariat@liquorandgaming.nsw.gov.au or contact Rochelle Hurst, Manager, Reviews & Secretariat Unit on 0436277929.