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Melbourne's Crown Casino Will Shut Down Every Second Poker Machine Amid Coronavirus Outbreak

Melbourne's Crown Casino Will Shut Down Every Second Poker Machine Amid Coronavirus Outbreak

Gamblers will now have at least 1.5 metres to ensure social distancing is continued

Stewart Perrie

Stewart Perrie

Melbourne's Crown Casino has announced a raft of changes to help ensure the spread of coronavirus is limited.

A state of emergency was declared in Victoria today, which allows authorities to ban non-essential public gatherings of more than 500 people.

As a result, Crown Casino will reduce its capacity at its bar, nightclub, restaurant and conference facilities to just 450.

In order to maintain the policy of social distancing, the casino will also shut down every second gaming machine.

Yamaguchi先生 (Creative Commons)

That means gamblers will have at least the minimum required 1.5-metre distance from other patrons.

Social distancing has been encouraged from local, state, federal and international authorities as a way to keep the spread of Covid-19 down.

People have also been told to self-isolate at home for two weeks as a way to continue social distancing.

Crown Resorts said in a statement: "The social distancing policy for Crown Melbourne has been approved by the Victorian Chief Health Officer.

"Crown has also implemented other precautionary measures across its Crown Melbourne and Crown Perth entertainment complexes, including the provision of alcohol-based hand sanitiser and more frequent and strengthened cleaning measures."

Crown Melbourne

The Star casino in Sydney has introduced measures to keep the gathering of people at a maximum of 499. It will also enforce a rule of shutting down every other poker machine.

Other internationally recognised casinos, like the ones in Las Vegas, have announced they will shut down completely until it's safe to reopen.

MGM Resorts and Wynn Resorts have announced they will be shutting their doors on the iconic Sin City strip.

MGM chief executive Jim Murren said: "It is now apparent that this is a public health crisis that requires major collective action if we are to slow its progression.

"Accordingly, we will close all of our Las Vegas properties as of Tuesday, March 17, for the good of our employees, guests and communities."

Featured Image Credit: Crown Melbourne

Topics: News, coronavirus, Australia