SkyCity Adelaide

The Hon. C. BONAROS (14:40): I seek leave to make a brief explanation before asking the Treasurer, representing the Attorney-General in the other place, a question about SkyCity Adelaide Casino.

Leave granted.

The Hon. C. BONAROS: As members would be aware, since about March this year we have been calling for increased scrutiny of SkyCity Adelaide Casino, even calling for a royal commission, after AUSTRAC revealed it had identified potential serious noncompliance at the Casino. At the time, the Treasurer personally chose to answer questions that we have asked rather than refer them to the minister for a response, as is his right.

However, what a difference a few months make. Earlier this month, when we asked a question, the Treasurer decided to change tack and told the chamber he would now refer those questions to the minister herself for a response. Yesterday, the government changed tack again, when the Treasurer gave a written response to an earlier question, where the minister for consumer and business services stated, 'In accordance with part 11 of the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Act 2006, I am prevented from disclosing any details of the meetings held with AUSTRAC.'

The written response also revealed that the Liquor and Gambling Commissioner and officers from Consumer and Business Services are having regular, ongoing meetings with AUSTRAC to discuss the operations of SkyCity Adelaide Casino. My questions to the minister for consumer and business services, through the Treasurer, are:

1. Is there anything you are able to tell us about AUSTRAC's investigations involving the Adelaide Casino?

2. What are you able to tell us about the Consumer and Business Services commissioner's suspended investigations involving the Adelaide Casino?

3. When do you expect to be able to tell this chamber specific details of the AUSTRAC investigation?

4. Do you agree the government has a duty of care to the people in South Australia, many who go to the Casino and could be putting themselves at risk or in danger if serious criminal activity is occurring at those premises?

The Hon. R.I. LUCAS (Treasurer) (14:42): I am very happy to refer the honourable member's questions to the Attorney-General and bring back a reply.