James Packer's sale of Crown Resorts shares to a Macau-based entertainment company will be put under the spotlight in a probe by NSW's independent gaming regulator.
Consolidated Press Holdings, Mr Packer's private investment company, in May sold 19.99 per cent of its shareholding in Crown Resorts to Melco Resorts and Entertainment for $1.76 billion.
The NSW Independent Liquor & Gaming Authority on Thursday said the sale is "apparently yet to be finalised" and has served Crown with compulsory orders seeking documents and information over the proposed sale.
The public inquiry will look into the management and operation of the casino ensuring that it remains free from criminal influence or exploitation and that gaming is conducting honestly.
James Packer leaves a Crown Casino meeting. Source: AAP
It follows recent media reports in Nine's publications of money laundering allegations relating to Crown, the authority said in a statement on Thursday.
Crown is building a casino and luxury resort in Sydney's Barangaroo, which is set to open in 2021.
Former Supreme Court judge Patricia Bergin SC will conduct the inquiry.
Crown said in a statement that it will fully co-operate with the inquiry.
Melco Resorts and Entertainment chief executive Lawrence Ho said at the time of the sale, the stake was a great opportunity for Melco, which operates casinos across Asia, including in Macau and the Philippines.
The Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation last week announced it will also review the allegations of dodgy dealings within Crown Casino.
The casino is also subject to an Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission investigation and the federal government has referred the matter to the Australian Commission for Law Enforcement Integrity.
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