The Star Entertainment Group has had the suspension of its licence for The Star Gold Coast casino deferred until 31 March 2025 by the Queensland Government in Australia.
The government outlined that following the decision “clear expectations have been set”, urging The Star to “ensure it takes urgent action to prioritise and deliver critical remediation measures”.
In addition, the appointment of Nicolas Weeks as the Special Manager of The Star Gold Coast has been extended until 30 June 2025.
In a statement, the Queensland Government said the licence has been deferred so that the government can “properly assess” The Star’s progress on its recently amended remediation plan.
The casino was previously due to have its licence suspended for 90 days from 20 December 2024.
Deb Frecklington, Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Minister for Integrity, stated: “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.
“We will release the Special Manager report and the outcome of the assessment following the Government’s March 2025 decision.”
The Queensland Government stated that the extension of Weeks’ position as Special Manager will be “an integral part of that process”.
It was also said that in February next year, The Star’s “progress in achieving its priority remediation measures of cultural reform, safer gambling, risk management, financial crime, and governance” will be assessed.
The assessment’s outcome will provide information to the Government on whether it should suspend The Star Gold Coast’s casino licence.
Frecklington added: “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.
“We recognise this may place pressure on The Star; however, 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.”
Earlier this month, The Star confirmed it received all necessary regulatory approvals regarding the appointment of Steve McCann as its Group CEO and Managing Director.
