The Queensland government has officially extended the suspension deadline for The Star Gold Coast's casino licence to March 31, 2027. This decision, announced last week, provides the casino operator with an additional six months to complete necessary remediation work, while the venue remains operational under strict regulatory supervision.
The extension follows insights from Special Manager Nicholas Weeks, who reported that although the casino group has made significant strides in its reform initiatives, there are still several critical issues requiring attention.
Weeks’ role as Special Manager has also been prolonged, ensuring ongoing independent oversight, alongside the external adviser monitoring The Star Brisbane throughout this period.
Queensland's Attorney General, Deb Frecklington, made it clear that the government is committed to upholding industry integrity. "We have continued to set clear expectations for The Star to ensure the utmost integrity of Queensland’s casino operations. Queenslanders can have full confidence that we will take immediate action if The Star fails to deliver on its obligations," she stated.
Frecklington’s comments reinforce that this extension is merely procedural and should not be interpreted as a relaxation of regulatory standards. "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," she added.
She also expressed gratitude towards Weeks. "I thank Mr. Weeks for his comprehensive report and continued independent oversight of The Star’s progress towards fulfilling its remediation plan,” she remarked.
The postponement is not a new development for The Star Gold Coast, which has seen its licence suspension extended multiple times. Originally set for March 2025, it had previously been pushed to September 2026. The Star initially came under scrutiny in Queensland in 2022 and was deemed unsuitable for licensure in October of that year, resulting in fines and Weeks’ appointment, as well as a 90-day suspension of its licence.
In contrast, The Star Sydney has had its licence suspension extended to June 30, 2027, with the regulator citing persisting concerns regarding the company’s governance, leadership, and corporate culture. Philip Crawford, chief commissioner of the New South Wales Independent Casino Commission, acknowledged the efforts made by The Star Sydney in addressing its initial suspension but attributed the extended licence suspension to challenges posed by the parent company.
Crawford noted that two former senior executives of The Star Entertainment Group were found by Australia’s Federal Court to have violated the Corporations Act 2001 regarding money laundering and criminal activity risks. "It is disappointing that despite the progress made by the Sydney casino, the group company continues to experience problems that affect each of its properties," Crawford remarked, signaling the NICC's close monitoring of how The Star and The Star Entertainment Group address these ongoing issues.
