Crown Sydney Casino Cuts Hours, Lays Off Workers Amid Low Patronage

Sydneys Crown Casino is reducing its operating schedule and laying off 180 workers. Since its August 2022 debut, the gaming venue has struggled to draw sufficient patronage to warrant continuous operation. This decision follows closely on the heels of a gaming floor closure due to inadequate attendance.

The casino will now operate under revised hours, closing from 2am to 10am, Monday through Thursday. Friday hours will remain unchanged, with continuous operation from 10am to 4am the following morning. Weekend schedules are also impacted, with a 2pm Saturday opening and closures at 4am and 2am on Sunday and Monday mornings, respectively.

This workforce reduction brings the total job losses at the Barangaroo site to 275 since its inauguration. The casino has encountered a series of obstacles, including substantial fines related to anti-money laundering violations.

Crown Sydneys Chief Executive, Mark McWhinnie, emphasized the company’s commitment to assisting impacted personnel, stating their intention to relocate as many as feasible to other Crown Resorts properties in Perth and Melbourne. This announcement comes mere days after threatened walkouts by Crown employees in Melbourne.

The workforce is advocating for improved employment terms. A salary increase is desired, naturally, but also enhanced compensation for work exceeding standard hours on Saturdays and Sundays, as well as festive occasions. Additionally, they seek more consistent work patterns to enable personal time beyond their occupations. A well-defined route for advancement in their roles based on years of service would also be highly regarded.