Crown Melbourne unveils plans for an AU$200m facelift

Crown Resorts has announced plans for a major AU$200m (US$140.7m) overhaul at its Melbourne property, marking the operator’s most significant investment into the casino resort location for almost 30 years.  

Indeed, this redevelopment project is set to introduce 15 additional hospitality options to the resort complex, as well as spelling a major revamp for the property’s Riverwalk – including the introduction of a new gastropub. Elsewhere, the renowned Palms entertainment venue will be reimagined as the Crown Live Theatre, with the space set to accommodate 1,250 guests as of its reopening – currently scheduled for November 2026.  

The Crown Towers’ lobby bar is also in line for renovation, with the refurbished venue set to reopen to the public in early 2027. However, the addition of a new private events destination to Crown Metropol’s 28th floor is currently underway, with this new space set to open as of May 2026.  

Regarding the subsequent community effects of this latest development, the full Crown Melbourne restructuring project is set to create around 2,000 construction jobs for the local area, as well as expanding open space in the city. Crown is also undertaking a Green Energy Transformation which aims to reduce carbon emissions by 23% by 2027 via the installation of roof solar panels, battery storage and further energy-saving technologies.  

Commenting on the announcement of this latest initiative, Crown Melbourne CEO Ed Domingo said: “This significant investment in new dining, entertainment and the iconic Riverwalk will cement Crown’s place as the ultimate destination for food, fun, entertainment and late-night energy. Melburnians and our visitors have changed over the past 30 years – and this reimagining of our precinct ensures we continue to elevate our offering and deliver experiences fit for the next generation.”   

This latest development closely follows the appointment of Carter Bair as the new Crown Melbourne CMO last month.