It was announced earlier today that the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) in Hobart, Tasmania together with gambling operator Federal Group are considering a project for the establishment of a new casino, which would be intended for high roller players only.
If approved by the Tasmanian government, the venue would be located at the site of the museum. According to local media, no further information has been revealed regarding the potential agreement between Federal Group and MONA. And given the fact that the casino would aim at drawing only the wealthiest players, the precise details on the deal are not likely to be disclosed. However, Tasmania Treasury officials confirmed that there is an ongoing discussion on the matter.
Currently, Federal Group is the sole licensee that has been authorized to feature poker machines, table games, and Keno at its properties across Tasmania.
Formerly, MONA has voiced interest in launching a boutique casino exclusively for high roller players. However, Federal Group would need to have its deed with the government of Tasmania rewritten in order for the proposal to be given the green light.
Tasmanian Treasurer Peter Gutwein commented that he is ready to implement the necessary changes in the Federal Group’s license, provided that the casino operator reaches an agreement with MONA. Mr. Gutwein also told local media that the proposal for the gaming facility was submitted a few weeks ago.
As mentioned above, if the interested parties agree on the terms of the deal and are given the nod to proceed with their plan, the new casino would feature gambling options for high rollers only. Casino experts believe that the property would attract wealthy visitors not only from the Asia-Pacific region, but also from Europe and North America.
The announcement about a potential deal between MONA and Federal Group came as Andrew Wilkie, an Independent MP for Hobart, proposed the gambling operator’s license to be put for tender.
According to disclosed donation papers, Federal Group is an important sponsor to both the Tasmanian Labor and Liberal parties. However, officials points out that this would by no means influence their final decision on whether the MONA casino proposal would be approved or rejected.
