U.S.-based gaming operator Hard Rock International has confirmed that it’s interested in bidding on a license to develop a casino on Australia’s Gold Coast. The bidders reportedly number 12 at this point, including Cambodia’s NagaCorp and Caesars Entertainment, local media report.
The Queensland government has given operators have until April to declare themselves as potential bidders. The companies must meet exacting standards, said Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones; the government wants a world-class integrated resort complex complete with entertainment venues, convention space, high-end retail and dining and luxury hotels, reported Asia Gaming Brief.
Jones added that the gaming floor will be capped at 5 percent of the total gross resort area, similar to the current development of Queen’s Wharf in Brisbane, a joint venture project between Star Entertainment and Asian investors including Chow Tai Fook.
“We expect a Gold Coast global tourism hub to create more than 6,000 local jobs and attract an extra million tourists each year,” Jones said. “This could be a game-changer for the Coast by giving the city world-class entertainment and convention facilities, events, tourism experiences and attractions.
“We’ve already had strong interest from the global market since the decision was made in August 2017 to retain a casino license on the Gold Coast—to build a new global tourism hub for the city.”
The Gold Coast tourism industry is now worth close to $5 billion and supports more than 40,000 jobs, AGB reported.
In addition, according to the Australian, Jones said the project would not involve an increase to the 7500 poker machines licensed on the Gold Coast.
Star Entertainment Group, which operates Star Casino on the Glitter Strip, is also said to be interested in the new project, and could have a leg up on the competition, according to Jones. “There is a possibility that just like Brisbane, Star will be the only operator if they can promise and deliver a true integrated resort with additional convention space, entertainment facilities, quality restaurants and cafes and bars.’’
Some 11 local sites are said to be under consideration for the new resort complex, but those locations have not been disclosed. “We have had more than a dozen operations from around the world come forward saying they would like to have a look at what sites are suitable,’’ Jones said. “We have confidence a competitive process offers a better outcome for the people of the Gold Coast.
Deputy Opposition Leader Tim Mander said the “11 secret sites’’ must be revealed. “The Premier must stop hiding and come clean with the people of the Gold Coast about the second casino,” he said. “The LNP forced Labor to rule out more pokies on the Gold Coast and now we want them to release the 11 secret sites.’’
Meanwhile, Hard Rock issued a statement confirming its interest. “We believe the government’s Global Tourism Hub strategy is the best way to attract strong international interest to bring new world-class tourism and entertainment drawcards to a world-class destination—the Gold Coast. And we’re interested.’’
