Published on: January 1, 2026, at 11:12 AM.

Updated on: January 1, 2026, at 11:12 AM.

• Approximately 600 staff members at Crown Melbourne staged a walkout during New Year’s Eve celebrations
• The United Workers Union has turned down Crown Melbourne’s latest contract proposal
• While the casino has agreed to increase wages for existing employees, it plans to offer significantly lower pay for new hires

Most visitors at Crown Melbourne on New Year’s Eve were likely unaware of a significant strike occurring at the casino, with around 600 staff members abstaining from work.

Despite the labor dispute, festivities at Crown Melbourne continued as planned, with the parent company, Crown Resorts, employing temporary staff to replace those on strike. The walkout included gaming dealers, bar staff, waitstaff, and security personnel under the United Workers Union (UWU).

“Crown Melbourne’s employees earn, on average, about 40% more than the industry average, with some roles exceeding 60% above the base award wages. These figures would continue to grow under Crown’s latest proposal, and we are dedicated to reaching a resolution,” stated a spokesperson for Crown Melbourne.

The UWU dismissed Crown Melbourne’s latest contract proposal due to its substantial pay cuts for new recruits.

Private Equity Acquisition

Crown Resorts, Australia’s largest casino operator, was taken over in 2022 by the US private equity giant Blackstone in a transaction valued at A$8.9 billion (approximately US$6 billion). Following this acquisition, the company has implemented cost-cutting measures and enhanced compliance across its three properties, addressing regulatory issues that contributed to the casino’s previous challenges.

Under the umbrella of Blackstone, Crown Resorts is focused on reducing labor costs. While the casino has agreed to raise existing employees’ wages by 3.25%, 3%, and 3% over the upcoming three years, it has simultaneously proposed decreasing pay for new hires. For instance, a current Level 1 employee earns A$34.22 per hour, while a new hire in the same role would make only A$28.84.

“The company’s strategy promotes a shift towards cheaper new hires rather than retaining skilled personnel, and our members are firmly opposed to this approach. Our members are focused on long-term sustainability and aspire for a future that honors those who contribute to the success of Australia’s largest singular entertainment venue,” explained UWU Casinos Director Andrew Jones.

Jones characterized the offer as a “US-style race to the bottom employment strategy” that contradicts the values of Australian society. The UWU’s members rejected Crown Melbourne’s contract offer by a vote of 87%.

Consequently, approximately 600 workers initiated a strike that lasted from 10 PM on New Year’s Eve until 2 AM on New Year’s Day.

Overview of Crown Melbourne

Crown Melbourne stands as Australia’s largest casino, boasting over 500 table games and nearly 3,000 electronic gaming machines. The resort also features an array of dining options with more than two dozen restaurants and bars, retail outlets, a convention center, a full-service spa, and around 1,600 hotel accommodations.