New Crown Resort Has “Spectacular Design”, but Needs to Be “More Than a Casino”

Australia’s growing casino market was a hot topic at the Tourism and Transport Forum’s Outlook conference in Sydney.

Speaking at the forum, Accor Asia Pacific CEO Michael Issenberg said casinos are a “megatrend that cannot be ignored”, adding that local developers should take note of the “new wave” of gambling venues coming to Asia.

“In Australia we have a strong casino industry but a new wave is coming and Singapore has set the benchmark. It is crucial that the next wave of casinos here in Australia add to the tourism infrastructure,” he said.

According to local gambling news, the Marina Bay Sands in Singapore will offer more than casino games. The resort will include restaurants, as well as shops, entertainment centers and theme parks.

Crown to build “spectacular” casino

Issenberg claims he was impressed by the “spectacular design” of James Packer’s new casino at Barangaroo, but added that it’s the Government’s role to “get a lot more than a casino”.

“I watched kind of with a little amazement, and I take my hat off to the Crown organization, at how they managed to position themselves to fulfill that development. Certainly the design is spectacular but we need to make sure it’s a major facility for Sydney tourism,” he told participants.

The Queensland Government has awarded three new casino licenses under Australian gambling laws, to help the local tourism market grow.