Burswood Entertainment Complex set to expand

The Western Australian Government has provided in-principle support for a $350 million extension and refurbishment of the Burswood Entertainment Complex (BEC).

Western Australian Racing and Gaming Minister Terry Waldron said the development would create a more diverse entertainment complex and provide an immediate $20 million boost to the State with an increase in tax and levies boosting the ongoing annual return to Government.

Minister Waldron explained "Burswood is a popular venue and its operators will spend $350million ensuring it can move to the next level as one of the Stateâs premier tourism and entertainment destinations.

"Most of the expansion is expected be completed in time for CHOGM (Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting) next year and Burswood has already agreed to shift some advance bookings in order to accommodate CHOGM events."

The WA 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.

Minister Waldron added "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."

Minister Waldron said BEC is seeking approval from the commission for an additional 250 gaming machines and 50 gaming tables.

31st July 2008 - AEG OGDEN EXPRESS INTEREST IN MANAGING PERTH ARENA

28th July 2008 - WORK BEGINS ON PERTH ARENA