Crown's Perth casino will resume gaming services and provide unrestricted food and beverage options starting May 8, marking its first return to normalcy since the lockdown began. However, certain restrictions are still in effect. The government has mandated adherence to social distancing protocols, allowing one person per two square meters indoors. To support these guidelines, Crown Perth has taken the step of deactivating every second gaming machine.
The lockdown, instated on April 27, prohibited gaming activities and in-house services, including food and other amenities at casinos. It was enacted following reports of a Covid-19 case arising from hotel quarantine that resulted in community transmission.
Though the lockdown officially ended on May 1, casinos, gyms, and nightclubs continue to face ongoing restrictions.
Meanwhile, Crown's Melbourne location has ramped up operations following the easing of restrictions by the Victorian government in March.
In the same month, private equity firm Blackstone made a bid of AUS$8.02 billion (£4.47 billion/€5.21 billion/US$6.19 billion) to acquire the remaining shares of Crown, of which it already owned 9.99%. Blackstone had previously purchased that stake from Melco Resorts & Entertainment Limited in April 2020 for $8.15 per share. Melco initially agreed to acquire a 19.99% stake in CPH Crown Holdings and later obtained an additional 9.99% stake.
This deal prompted the Bergin inquiry and a subsequent report from the New South Wales Independent Liquor & Gaming Authority, which investigated Crown’s suitability for a casino license in central Sydney. The inquiry revealed instances of money laundering and other criminal activities involving Crown.
Additionally, Blackstone incorporated a clause in its agreement that would allow it to withdraw if any of Crown's licenses were suspended or if Crown failed to secure a New South Wales license.
