NSW regulator set to give Crown conditional green light for start of gaming within weeks

The roulette wheels will soon be spinning on the gaming floor of Crown’s new casino in Barangaroo, the NSW regulator has confirmed.

The roulette wheels could be spinning on the gaming floor of Crown’s new casino in Barangaroo before the end of next month.

NSW regulator Philip Crawford, chairman of the Independent Liquor and Gaming Authority, said Crown’s gambling floors would be open “before the end of March.”

“We are looking towards getting their gaming open on a conditional basis in this first quarter of the year,” he said.

A baccarat game table in Crown’s exclusive gambling room, yet to open to the public in Sydney. Picture: David Caird

Crown chief executive Steve McCann, on the back of reporting a $196 million loss, said: “We think we are getting close to announcing an opening date shortly.”

But it will be a different model with the emphasis on the full resort experience. “We are no longer dealing with junkets, we will be looking to convert the typical high roller to a mass premium customer,” he said.

Crown CEO Steve McCann is hopeful an opening date will be announced soon. Picture Richard Dobson

The Star Entertainment Group also posted a $73 million loss on the back of Covid lockdowns.

Chief executive Matt Bekier is also focusing on building an integrated resort in Sydney with plans for two new theatres, 10 new restaurants and a six-star hotel.

“I want to make sure that we are the centre of entertainment in Sydney,” he said. “People are dying to go out and we want to give them the opportunity.”

Matt Bekier, CEO of the Star Casino in Pyrmont, which also includes Sydney’s Lyric Theatre. Picture: Britta Campion / The Australian

The enthusiasm for the market has been reflected in interest from international hotel brands keen to get a foothold in Sydney. “We have always said it will be a Ritz-Carlton but there are other six-star hotel brands knocking on our door,” Mr Bekier said.

The Star will also face an investigation into money laundering with Senior lawyer Adam Bell, SC, who played a crucial role in the Bergin inquiry into Crown Resorts, heading the inquiry.

“I am really keen to get through all the inquiries and everything else and start to execute these plans very quickly,” Mr Bekier said.

“The best news is that Sydney is bouncing back really quickly.”