Last month Tabcorp announced that it had applied for an online betting licence in Australia’s Northern Territory. The state has a thriving online betting market, with turnover of around A$3 million (US$2.87 million) and the least restrictive gaming regulations of the Australian states. It also has a rapidly growing economy and increasing tourist market. New Zealand’s SkyCity Entertainment is to expand its Darwin Casino site and build a beachfront complex at Little Mindil.

The Darwin Casino is presently undergoing refurbishment due to be completed before the end of this year at a cost of A$30 million (US$28.7 million). The new accommodation, entertainment and recreational complex at Little Mindil is expected to take three years to build and cost A$50 million (US$47.8 million). According to SkyCity General Manager Andrew Wilson, "We want to see Darwin become a resort destination in its own right, not just a gateway to other destinations."

In October 2006 the NT Government named SkyCity as the preferred developer for the Little Mindil site and in January 2007 granted SkyCity exclusive casino rights until 2026 and renewable. A commitment was made at that time to upgrade Darwin Casino. The long-term licence has given SkyCity the necessary security to plan for investment in the growing tourist and gaming market. (E-06.09.08)

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