Published on: November 24, 2025, 06:29h.
Updated on: November 24, 2025, 06:30h.
- Packer criticizes Andrews for tax regulations affecting Crown’s acquisition.
- Crown has faced significant backlash due to allegations of money laundering and governance issues.
- Political figures dismiss wealthy billionaire’s personal attacks on Andrews.
James Packer, the former CEO and chairman of Crown Resorts, has labeled ex-Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews as “human filth.”
Packer expressed his views during an episode of the business and financial podcast Rampart Talks, specifically addressing Andrews’ time in office and the 2022 slot tax legislation which threatened Crown’s US$8.9 billion buyout by US investment firm Blackstone.
“With three weeks left in office, Daniel Andrews alters taxes on Crown and siphons off $50 million without any compensation,” Packer stated to host Joe Ashton of Rampart.
“I found that to be appalling conduct. I look forward to confronting Daniel Andrews face-to-face and being even more vocal,” he continued.
“I hold him in the lowest regard, considering him human filth … I welcome any legal action he might pursue against me,” Packer remarked.
$2.3 Billion Windfall
Nonetheless, the acquisition was successful, and Packer, who possessed about 37% of Crown, profited roughly US$2.3 billion from the transaction. In May 2019, he sold roughly 19.99% of his shares in Crown to Melco Resorts & Entertainment for approximately US$1.22 billion.
Packer was born into immense wealth, heir to his father Kerry Packer’s media empire, making his assertion that Andrews “almost ruined my life” somewhat questionable.
The billionaire departed from his executive roles at Crown in 2018, citing mental health struggles following his breakup with singer Mariah Carey.
In the years that followed, Crown was subjected to intense regulatory scrutiny concerning its business practices, including allegations of facilitating money laundering and engaging with junket operators connected to organized crime.
The company was ultimately determined to be unfit to hold gaming licenses in Victoria, New South Wales, and Western Australia.
Negative Consequences
Packer faced criticism during a regulatory inquiry in New South Wales for having a “negative influence on the management of Crown Resorts,” even after stepping down from the board.
Current Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan responded to Packer’s comments without directly naming him, simply referring to him as “that individual,” as reported by The Age.
At a press conference recently, she expressed strong disagreement with Packer’s criticisms of her predecessor.
Andrews has chosen not to respond to Packer’s characterization of him.