SkyCity says Darwin casino tax impost smaller than expected
By Paul McBeth
July 29 (BusinessDesk) - SkyCity Entertainment Group, the listed hotel and casino operator, will face a smaller than
expected increase in operating costs after Australia's Northern Territory government completed its review of the state's
gaming taxes.
The Auckland-based company estimates a new 10-year community benefit levy will add an extra $1 million in operating
costs to SkyCity, it said in a statement. The company had previously estimated the casino levy in the Northern Territory
could cost it as much as $6 million a year.
The levy applies from July 1, and if there are any changes in the rate over the next decade, SkyCity will be able to
offset any licence or regulatory fee against the gaming tax, it said.
In May, the company said its Darwin casino continued to experience challenging trading conditions. SkyCity's Northern
Territory casino generated revenue of A$73.1 million in the six months ended Dec. 31 and earnings before interest, tax,
depreciation and amortisation of A$21.6 million.
SkyCity's shares last traded at $4.19, and have gained 8 percent this year.
(BusinessDesk)