The United Workers Union is worried that an increase in the gaming tax could lead to the elimination of hundreds of jobs.
Australia.- The United Workers Union, which represents thousands of staff at the Star Sydney casino, is concerned that job losses may result from the state’s increased gaming tax. It requests a quick meeting with Daniel Mookhey, the treasurer of New South Wales.
The planned tax increase, according to the union’s director Dario Mujkic, could cost Star Sydney AU$100m annually, which would affect the casino’s 4,500 employees who work in gaming, cleaning, hospitality, and security.
The tax rate on casino gaming income will increase to 60.67% on July 1 from the current 31.57%. The move was announced in December 2021 by the state’s former treasurer, Matt Kean, who claimed it could raise an additional AU$364 million (US$244.2 million) over three years to assist balance the budget after the impact of the Covid-19 outbreak and natural disasters.
The Star, however, claimed that there had been no consultation and that the change would result in a higher tax rate in New South Wales than in Victoria. The United Workers Union requests assurances on job protection. Since the announcement, the union and Star have met multiple times, according to Mujkic, and the casino expects probable yearly losses of AU$100 million.
“Our union believes in progressive taxation, but I don’t think this proposal was ever about tax justice, I think it was really about having someone – Star – to attack politically in the context of the gambling reform debate,” Mujkic said in an interview with The Sydney Morning Herald.
“Star is undergoing a very extensive repair effort after receiving numerous fines from regulators. That is completely acceptable in light of the wrongdoing and poor management. However, in my opinion, this tax hike was an addition to that.
Today (April 17), Mookhey is anticipated to make the customary post-election announcement that the first budget of the new administration would be released in September. 고스톱 The economic statement for Parliament will be delivered in June.