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The new state government in Queensland has decided to defer a casino licence suspension for The Star Gold Coast until 31 March as it seeks answers on how the business is fixing a litany of problems.
The Star Gold Coast - part of the embattled The Star Entertainment Group (ASX: SGR) - was due to have its casino licence suspended for 90 days, commencing 20 December 2024.
However, the newly appointed government has determined that it needs more time to properly assess the company's recently amended remediation plan to resolve governance issues and processes, including anti-money laundering regulations, problem gambling and risk management.
Nicholas Weeks, who was appointed by the NSW Independent Casino Commission (NICC) as a special manager to The Star with his role extended to 30 June next year, is expected to be an integral part of that process.
Related story: 'First strike' for The Star Entertainment Group after $8m loss in October
Attorney-General Deb Frecklington said she was committed to holding The Star to account while restoring confidence in Queensland casinos.
“The Crisafulli Government has the highest standards when it comes to the integrity of casino operations and, unlike our predecessors, we are committed to transparency and restoring the confidence of Queenslanders in the regulatory process,” the Attorney-General said.
“We will release the special manager report and the outcome of the assessment following the government’s March 2025 decision.
“This government has been clear in its expectations of The Star, and will not allow The Star Gold Coast to keep operating as a casino at the expense of integrity, our Government’s high standards, and community safety."
She says the government recognises this may place pressure on The Star; but "the remediation actions must be its urgent priority".
"There should be no assumption that there will be any further deferrals granted to The Star and any failure to meet milestones may result in The Star Gold Coast casino licence being suspended," she says.
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