The only casino operator in Queensland – The Star – has been given the chance to prove that it should remain as the sole operator in the Gold Coast.
The Queensland Government has made the competition for the local casino sector more fierce, as it suspended the process for a global tourism hub that had been active for over a year. Now, it is willing to continue its existence as the only casino company in the state, The Star would have to prove that there is currently no need for another casino to be legalised in the city in order to serve as a major attraction for more tourists.
Kate Jones, the Tourism Industry Development Minister, has explained that no less than 10 proponents have been interested in the process, including overseas companies. She further reminded that The Star had previously pledged to make a massive investment into the development of the Gold Coast, which could mean that the Gold Coast would not need another integrated casino resort to attract more visitors.
Ms Jones explained that the Government was to suspend the ongoing process for a global tourism hub proposals, as it intended to negotiate with The Star over the gambling operator’s intentions for such a multi-billion dollar investment. According to the authorities, only then they would be able to assess the offer’s pros and cons for the Gold Coast.
The Star Has Been Willing to Invest in the Gold Coast Expansion and Upgrade
Previously, The Star has proposed to invest in the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre’s further expansion. The gambling operator has also revealed that it intends to bring some updates to its Broadbeach-based complex. Both investments have been proposed in return to the exclusivity right to be the only casino operator in the city.
Minister Jones shared that the Government expects the casino company to come up with more details on their future plans. As she noted, the authorities are interested in making an assessment of the company’s project for the Gold Coast. They made an appointment for an advisory panel to gather representatives of the business, tourism and the local community in March to share their opinions on the matter.
So far, the group that is engaged with the assessment conducted several meetings, undertook some random surveys and analysed the written submissions. As revealed by Chairman John Witheriff, they also had some consultations with community groups that have not been supporting the idea of a second casino in the city. Mr Witheriff shared that more than 30% of the people who took part in the survey did not support the idea, and more than 50% of the survey respondents said they support or have no concerns regarding a second casino in case that the venue is included in an integrated resort situated on private land.
The Chairman further noted that they did not intend to make any public land available for the establishment of another casino in the region.
- Author
Daniel Williams
