Gaming Minister denies there are plans for Geelong casino

UPDATE: Gaming Minister Jane Garrett has hosed down speculation there are plans to build a casino in Geelong.

Resort and hotel developer John Haddad has approached the Andrews government with a $1 billion private bid to build Victoria’s second casino on the Geelong waterfront.

But Ms Garrett told Ross and John there was ‘no concrete proposal’ that had been submitted for the government to consider.

Mr Haddad said an international ’boutique’ hotel and casino complex could draw international visitors to Geelong.

He was quick to point out the idea was only in its very early stages, but confirmed he had written to the government.

‘There’s huge amounts of work to be done,’ he said.

He said he will now contact the Geelong mayor Darren Lyons and Frank Costa.

LISTEN: Neil Mitchell speaks to John Haddad

Jane Garrett said a Casino in Geelong was ‘so far off reality’.

She said any detailed proposal would need to go through a ‘rigorous process’, including community consultation.

‘I’m always open to ideas but something like that would have a big impact on the local community.’

LISTEN: Ross and John ask Victoria’s Gaming Minister Jane Garrett about the proposal