Burswood Entertainment Complex set to expand, Waldron
Author: Terry Waldron
Published on: 19-July-2010
The State Government has provided in-principle support for a $350million extension and refurbishment of the Burswood Entertainment Complex (BEC).
Racing and Gaming Minister Terry Waldron said the development would create a more diverse entertainment complex and provide an immediate $20million boost to the State with an increase in tax and levies boosting the ongoing annual return to Government.
“Burswood is a popular venue and its operators will spend $350million ensuring it can move to the next level as one of the State’s premier tourism and entertainment destinations,” Mr Waldron said.
“Most of the expansion is expected be completed in time for CHOGM next year and Burswood has already agreed to shift some advance bookings in order to accommodate CHOGM events.”
The Government secured the increase in taxes and levies during negotiations following the application by Burswood Entertainment Complex to increase the size of the gaming floor with more machines and tables.
“While this Government will not support the introduction of poker machines into Western Australia, it will not stand in the way of the Gaming and Wagering Commission deciding on the application for more gaming capacity at the casino,” the Minister said.
“Burswood is a major tourism drawcard in the region and the addition of a Rockpool Bar and Grill, a premium Japanese restaurant and the complete refurbishment of the InterContinental Perth Burswood Hotel amongst a host of major capital expenditure will only strengthen that.”
Mr Waldron said BEC is seeking approval from the commission for an additional 250 gaming machines and 50 gaming tables.
“If approved this will take the total number of machines and tables at BEC to 2000 and 220 respectively,” he said.
“The rate of tax and levies paid by BEC on those new machines will rise from 22 to 27 per cent over five years.
“WA will still retain its position as having by far the lowest concentration of gaming machines per capita in Australia at approximately 10 times less than the national average.”
The Minister said the Government would also boost problem gambling support services by allocating an initial $2million with a further $500,000 each year from tax revenue increases.
Minister's office - 9213 7200
