The NSW Independent Casino Commission (NICC) has been recognised for its staunch commitment to casino reform with a prestigious award from the International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR).
The NICC was named winner of the Regulatory Excellence category at a gala dinner during the IAGR 2025 conference in Toronto, Canada on 22 October.
The award honours the NICC for its work leading the three-year remediation program at Crown Sydney, following the Bergin Inquiry.
After being informed of the accolade, Acting Chief Commissioner Murray Smith said the NICC was proud to be recognised for its dedication to restoring the expected standards at Crown Sydney.
“This has included three years of intense remediation which has completely transformed the casino’s governance, culture, safety and compliance functions,” Mr Smith said.
“The NICC has proven that it is possible to enact long lasting change and in doing so has set a new standard for Australian casino operations.”
The Regulatory Excellence award recognises the complex work undertaken to transform the governance, culture, safety and compliance functions at Crown Sydney since the inception of the NICC in 2022.
This intense remediation program resulted in the elimination of high-roller junkets, the prevention of money laundering and the introduction of more scrutinised gambling harm minimisation measures at the casino.
IAGR President Ben Haden, who was part of the judging panel, said this year’s winners demonstrated measurable progress.
“Our judges looked for clear problem definitions, robust interventions and evidence of impact,” Mr Haden said.
“The 2025 winners show how thoughtful reforms, strong governance and targeted education can improve consumer protection and market integrity over the long term.”
The IAGR awards aim to recognise those who have made outstanding contributions and achievements in gaming regulation all over the world.
Other winners on the night include Nigeria’s Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority (Regulatory Innovation Award) and the Danish Gambling Authority (Best Regulatory campaign).
More information on the winners can be found here: Awards - IAGR - International Association of Gaming Regulators