Australian media outlets are reporting that Crown Resorts’ AU$2.2 billion (US$1.6 billion) Crown Sydney development could be on the verge of launching casino operations as it begins advertising for new staff.
According to The Sydney Morning Herald, the NSW cabinet will this week consider an agreement between Crown and the NSW Independent Liquor and Gaming Authority (ILGA) which could finally allow Crown Sydney to open its casino almost 18 months after non-gaming facilities welcomed their first customers.
The report states that the license would be for an initial two years and could be transferred to The Blackstone Group assuming the US private equity giant completes its AU$8.9 billion (US$6.5 billion) acquisition of Crown. The acquisition was recently approved by Crown’s shareholders and is currently awaiting regulatory approvals.
The SMH quoted a Crown spokeswoman as stating the company will continue “to work closely with [ILGA] and welcomes any decision allowing gaming to commence in Sydney. We will provide an update when appropriate.”
Crown had originally planned to open the casino at Crown Sydney in late 2020 but the launch was delayed pending the outcome of the Bergin inquiry into the company’s suitability. The inquiry ultimately found Crown unsuitable but offered the opportunity to return to suitability by working closely with ILGA to address a range of concerns around its relationship with Asian junkets and the influence of majority shareholder James Packer on the Board of Directors.
Despite this, non-gaming operations launched in December 2020 after being issued an interim liquor license.
In anticipation of a long-awaited opening, Crown last week began advertising for additional casino staff including table game employees and a general manager.
