The Star Entertainment Group’s licence suspension for The Star Gold Coast has been deferred until 31 March 2027 by the Queensland Government to allow the operator to continue making progress with outstanding commitments from its remediation plan.
However, while the operator has been given a lifeline with the deferral, it has also been warned that ‘immediate action’ will be taken if it fails to deliver on its obligations.
Following consideration of the latest independent advice from Special Manager Nicholas Weeks, as well as The Star’s progress in addressing outstanding remediation requirements, the deferral of the licence suspension has been extended.
The Star Gold Coast’s licence was due to be suspended for 90 days from 30 September, but the government acknowledged Weeks’ August report, as ‘significant progress across its key remediation and reform initiatives’ had been made, including organisational and financial reforms, while several priority remediation matters remain in progress.
Queensland Attorney General and Minister for Justice and Minister for Integrity Deb Frecklington noted that the government will continue to monitor the progress of The Star’s remediation efforts.
Frecklington said: “We have continued to set clear expectations for The Star to ensure the utmost integrity of Queensland’s casino operations. Those expectations remain unchanged, and while I acknowledge the work of The Star to date, this extension will allow The Star to further demonstrate its delivery on key remediation commitments under the agreement.
“Queenslanders can have full confidence that we will take immediate action if The Star fails to deliver on its obligations. I thank Mr Weeks for his comprehensive report and continued independent oversight of The Star’s progress towards fulfilling its remediation plan.”
The expectation for The Star will be to use the six-month deferral period to continue progressing through its remediation plan.
Weeks’ appointment as Special Manager has also been extended in line with the deferred licence suspension date, during which he will continue to monitor and assess the effectiveness of the reforms to inform future decisions on the casino’s operations.
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