The Victoria government is considering a bid from casino developer John Haddad for a second casino within the state’s borders, local media reported. Australian gambling operator Crown Resorts currently operates Victoria’s only full-scale gambling venue, located in its capital Melbourne.
Reportedly, Mr. Haddad has proposed the construction of a A$1-billion casino resort on the Geelong waterfront. According to local media, Victoria’s Minister for Consumer Affairs, Gaming, and Liquor Regulation, Jane Garrett, and her office have started preliminary discussions about the potential new casino. The reports came at a time when Queensland and New South Wales have announced that they are to host large casino complexes in a bid to boost local economies and stimulate regional competition with the already established gambling venues.
Several important Geelong manufacturers have been shuttered over the past several years, which imminently had a negative impact on local economy. Experts noted that a casino in the region would bring much-needed jobs and economic boost. Furthermore, if completed, the venue is to be located near the Avalon Airport and a number of local attractions. In other words, it is more likely to draw the attention of a wider variety of both gambling and non-gambling customers.
Although the casino will have many supporters, it will most certainly meet vocal opposition, as well. Anti-gambling organizations and local community groups will probably argue that a gambling venue may not be the best thing for a city with so many recent job losses.
A spokesperson for Minister Garrett said that her office has not been considering a casino proposal at this point. Mr. Haddad commented that it is too early to reveal any details on the potential new gambling venue. However, local media found out that the businessman had put forward the casino plan through the state’s market-led proposal procedure, which makes it possible for private sector representatives to submit infrastructure projects.
It is still unclear what the reaction of Crown Resorts would be on the new casino. Currently, the company is the only one operating on the Victorian gambling market with its Melbourne-based casino.
Last year, Crown Resorts had its gaming license extended from 2033 to 2050. In exchange, the company is to pay the additional amount of A$910 million in taxes. However, the Victoria government has repeatedly pointed out that this does not mean that it would not consider the possibility for one or more than one new gambling facilities in the state to open doors in the years to come.
