Australia: Casinos in Townsville and Darwin to be audited over money-laundering risk

The watchdog identified "potential gaps and deficiencies" in the operators' anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing controls, risks and oversight. 

Concerns taken seriously

AUSTRAC CEO Brendan Thomas said while the businesses were relatively small, they still faced an increased risk of being exploited by criminals. "We are watching and we will take further action," he said.

"AUSTRAC is serious about driving illicit money out of the gambling industry in Australia and making sure businesses that facilitate gambling have strong money-laundering controls," he said. 

Mr Thomas said all businesses with gaming machines needed to take the risk of money laundering seriously.

Auditors will assess whether the casinos are appropriately monitoring customers, doing risk assessments and ensuring enough oversight of anti-financial crime programs.

AUSTRAC will determine the scope of the audits for both operations, with casinos to foot the bill.

The watchdog will also decide on any further action, pending the auditors' findings.

It follows major action by AUSTRAC against other casino operators in recent years, including Crown Resorts, Sky City, and The Star and online bookmakers, Entain, Sportsbet and Bet 365.

The Ville to 'fully co-operate'

In a statement, the Ville Resort-Casino said it would continue to work with regulators to ensure it was meeting compliance standards.

"The Ville Resort-Casino takes its obligations as a responsible casino operator incredibly seriously, particularly in relation to its key responsibilities in detecting and preventing financial crime," a spokesperson said.

The casino said it had recently improved its program to mitigate money laundering and terrorism financing. 

"The Ville will fully co-operate with AUSTRAC as part of the external audit process and we look forward to demonstrating our enhanced capabilities in anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing." 

In February 2024, allegations that the Ville-Resort Casino paid an illegal junket operator in "cash and loyalty points" were dismissed in Townsville Magistrates Court.

The Ville is owned by the Morris Group, which last year said it would continue to work with state regulators to ensure it adhered to legislation.

Mindil Beach Casino Resort general manager Brad Morgan said the business would continue to comply with state and federal regulators.

"Mindil Beach Casino Resort … takes its regulatory and harm minimisation obligations seriously, always striving to ensure adherence with its compliance and regulatory obligations. This includes areas such as anti-money laundering/counter-terrorism financing, responsible service of gaming and responsible service of alcohol," he said.

Get a morning news briefing in your inbox

Subscribe to our ABC NewsMail bringing you breaking news from overnight, plus a heads-up on the stories that will shape your day.