The Queensland Government has deferred the suspension of The Star Gold Coast’s casino licence by a further year, with the venue continuing to operate under a special manager.
The Star was initially due to have its Gold Coast casino licence suspended for 90 days in May 2024, but has been deferred a number of times as the operator implements its remediation programme following a string of disciplinary actions, including a A$100 million penalty.
The latest deferral has been informed by The Star’s progress across priority remediation measures, after consideration of a report produced by independent special manager, Nick Weeks.
In his report, Weeks acknowledged that The Star has made steady progress on its remediation efforts, including those measures identified as key priorities, but noted that progress has been slower than anticipated, due to The Star’s recent financial challenges and uncertainty.
The 12-month deferral will provide The Star with the opportunity to continue to implement and embed key deliverables under its remediation plan.
Weeks role as special manager has also been extended to ensure continued independent oversight of The Star’s casino operations in Queensland.
“The Crisafulli Government has the highest standards when it comes to the integrity of casino operations in Queensland,” said Acting Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Minister for Integrity, Jarrod Bleijie. “We will continue to closely monitor The Star’s remediation progress to ensure key milestones are met.
“This deferral does not prevent us from taking immediate action should The Star fail to meet its remediation obligations.”
Star Entertainment Group CEO and managing director Steve McCann commented: “We acknowledge there is more work to do, but we are pleased the Special Manager has recognised the steady progress on The Star’s remediation efforts, including those measures identified as key priorities.
“The Star is committed to continuing its transparent and constructive relationship with the Special Manager and External Advisor, the Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation, Queensland and the Queensland Government, and demonstrating to all its stakeholders its suitability as a licence holder as soon as possible.”
Alongside the extension at The Star Gold Coast, Weeks will also continue overseeing operations at The Star Sydney Casino until at least 31 March 2026, after the New South Wales Independent Casino Commission (NICC) declined to lift the suspension of its licence earlier this week.
Shares in Star Entertainment Group Ltd. (ASX:SGR) closed 2.15 per cent higher at A$0.095 per share in Sydney Thursday.