James Packer's $1.5 billion casino project at Barangaroo continues to divide Sydney – some the city's biggest sporting names have spoken in support of the project, which its original architect instead describes as "offensive" and a "scandal".

A little less than 40 submissions about the project were released in full by the state government on Wednesday. It is considering a modified plan for the casino, which would have it stand at 275 metres at its highest point.

Artist's impression of Crown Sydney at Barangaroo. Credit:Wilkinson Eyre Architects

About six positive submissions were received, 20 objections – mostly from members of the public – and the balance were neutral.

The head of the NRL, Dave Smith, said the project would provide employment for Indigenous school-leavers seeking employment in an NRL program, School to Work.