Crown Melbourne bets AU$200m on biggest overhaul in three decades
Crown Melbourne is undertaking an ambitious transformation, committing AU$200 million to a sweeping redevelopment that will reshape the iconic integrated resort's dining, entertainment and public spaces over the next two years.
The investment will deliver 15 new restaurants, bars and casual venues alongside a major revitalisation of the property's celebrated Yarra River-facing Riverwalk precinct. Crown says the program will introduce homegrown restaurateurs, internationally recognised brands and dining concepts not yet seen in Australia.
Chief executive Ed Domingo described the redevelopment as a generational reset for the property. "Melburnians and our visitors have changed over the past 30 years," he said, "and this reimagining of our precinct ensures we continue to elevate our offering and deliver experiences fit for the next generation."
Among the confirmed additions is a riverside gastropub opening directly onto the Yarra waterfront, designed to serve elevated pub fare in a relaxed, social atmosphere before transitioning into a nightlife venue after dark. It joins the previously announced steakhouse from acclaimed Sydney butchery Victor Churchill.
The property's existing Palms venue will be rebranded Crown Live Theatre, relaunching in November 2026 with a 1,250-seat capacity. Crown is positioning the refurbished space as a contender for international touring acts, theatrical residencies and high-profile concerts.
Other activations include a refreshed Crown Towers lobby bar set to open in early 2026, and the conversion of Crown Metropol's 28th floor into a premium private events space debuting in May. The sky-level venue, featuring panoramic floor-to-ceiling city views, will cater to weddings, corporate functions and large-scale private gatherings.
Beyond hospitality, Crown is making a significant sustainability play. The resort's 500,000-square-metre footprint — spanning two CBD blocks — will be fitted with rooftop solar panels, battery storage and energy-efficient systems as part of what the company is calling one of Australia's most ambitious green energy transformation projects. The upgrades are projected to cut carbon emissions by 23 per cent by 2027, equivalent to removing around 4,700 vehicles from the road annually.
Construction and detailed design work is already underway across multiple venues, with a staged rollout of openings planned from mid-2026 through to 2027.
Jonathan Jackson, 23rd February 2026
