Crown Resorts, one of Australia’s largest casino operators, has announced plans to slash hundreds of jobs in its Melbourne, Sydney, and Perth locations in a bid to cut costs amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
The company, which owns and operates popular casinos such as Crown Melbourne, Crown Sydney, and Crown Perth, has been hit hard by the economic fallout of the global health crisis, with revenue plummeting and visitor numbers dwindling as travel restrictions and social distancing measures continue to impact the hospitality and entertainment industries.
According to reports, Crown Resorts is set to cut around 650 jobs across its various locations, with the majority of the layoffs expected to come from its Melbourne and Sydney properties. The cuts are said to affect a wide range of roles, including dealers, waitstaff, cleaners, and administrative staff, as the company looks to streamline operations and reduce expenses in the face of ongoing financial challenges.
In a statement, Crown Resorts CEO Ken Barton expressed regret over the decision to cut jobs but emphasized the need to take drastic measures to ensure the long-term sustainability of the business. “These are incredibly difficult times for the hospitality industry, and we have had to make some tough decisions in order to navigate the current economic climate,” Barton said. “While we are saddened to see talented and dedicated employees leave our company, we believe these changes are necessary to secure the future of Crown Resorts and protect the jobs of those who remain.”
The news of the job cuts has sparked outrage among employees and union representatives, who have criticized Crown Resorts for prioritizing profits over people. The United Workers Union, which represents hospitality workers in Australia, has called on the company to reconsider its decision and explore alternative solutions to the financial challenges it faces.
“The mass layoffs announced by Crown Resorts are a devastating blow to hundreds of hardworking employees who have dedicated their careers to the company,” said United Workers Union spokesperson Jane Collins. “We urge Crown Resorts to engage in meaningful dialogue with employees and their representatives to find ways to mitigate the impact of these job cuts and support workers during this difficult time.”
Despite the challenges facing the company, Crown Resorts remains optimistic about its future and is actively exploring new opportunities for growth and diversification. In recent months, the company has announced plans to expand its online gaming offerings and develop new entertainment and hospitality ventures in key markets across Australia and beyond.
As Crown Resorts braces for the next chapter in its evolution, the company is committed to navigating the current economic landscape with resilience and determination, while prioritizing the well-being of its employees and maintaining its position as a leading player in the global casino industry.
