Posted on: November 2, 2023, 07:43h.

Last updated on: November 2, 2023, 07:43h.

Crown Melbourne employees are considering a potential strike as negotiations with Crown Resorts over pay and other considerations reach a critical point. Similar to recent strikes in Las Vegas and Detroit, the employees are demanding improved pay, enhanced weekend and holiday pay, and better work-life balance. The strike threat comes ahead of the annual Melbourne Cup.

The employees, represented by the United Workers Union, assert that a recent ballot vote authorizes a potential strike involving 3,600 workers. Crown Resorts contests these numbers and challenges the eligibility of such a large workforce to engage in a strike. Tensions are rising as the strike is strategically timed to coincide with the upcoming Melbourne Cup, which puts pressure on Crown Resorts to address the employees’ concerns and reach a satisfactory agreement before the high-profile event takes place.

Crown Melbourne is the hospitality services partner of the annual horse racing festivities. However, a strike during the Melbourne Cup would disrupt the visitor experience.

The workers’ protests are scheduled to start this Saturday, coinciding with Victoria Derby Day. The strike may last until Monday, casting a shadow over the highly anticipated Melbourne Cup scheduled for the following day. Specific strike times include a halt of activities from 6-10 p.m. on Saturday, followed by a pause from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Sunday. The protest would then resume from 6-10 p.m. on Monday, effectively impacting the operations of Crown Melbourne during key periods over the weekend.

Last year, the Melbourne Cup Carnival had a significant economic impact on Victoria, generating AUD3.6 billion (US$2.21 billion) and attracting visitors from 28 countries.