At the beginning of the week, in response to the coronavirus pandemic, Crown Resorts said that it would take precautionary measures inline with “social distancing” protocols established by global health officials. This meant shutting off every other slot machine and electronic gaming table at its Melbourne casino, and was a decision made in accordance with Australia Prime Minister Scott Morrison’s assertion that no country-wide shut down was necessary. At least one politician has now spoken out against Crown’s decision, and, at the same time, against the prime minister, blasting the company for not taking more drastic measures.

Labor Party politician Anthony Byrne, who also serves as the deputy head of the government’s national security committee, has gone on the offensive against both Crown and the government for not making a casino closure mandatory. He asserts, “Given this once-in-a-lifetime pandemic is a matter of national security requiring us to take all steps to protect our community, Crown and other casinos have to be shut down. Crown doesn’t offer a unique community service. It is not a special place. It undermines confidence in government measures to contain the virus by giving Crown a free ride to remain open.”

After reducing the number of available casino options at the beginning of the week, Crown and Star have since taken additional measures in an attempt to mitigate concerns over COVID-19 while still trying to function and support themselves financially. Given all of Crown’s legal issues, it needs all the help it can get.

Australian health officials have yet to rule that the current situation surrounding the coronavirus warrants a complete shutdown of the country, and Australia’s top government leaders are listening. Byrne appears to be more willing to stir up political controversy than show solidarity, singling out Crown for making a decision that is consistent with state guidelines and which has been made by other casino operators, as well.