Star’s HK partner cleared by Queensland watchdog

Star Entertainment’s Hong Kong partners on the $3.9bn Queens Wharf project have been cleared by Queensland regulators following an investigation into its links with criminals.

Lighting testing at Queen’s Wharf, which is due to open in August.

Star Entertainment’s Hong Kong partner on the $3.9bn Queens Wharf project has been cleared by Queensland regulators following an investigation into its suitability.

Attorney-General Yvette D’Ath said that after a detailed investigation she had decided that Chow Tai Fook Enterprises (CTFE) continued to be a suitable partner in the Queens Wharf development, which is due to open in August.

“While the investigation found CTFE did have dealings with a business associate of ill repute which they did not disclose to the regulator, there was insufficient evidence that CTFE was aware of this person’s background during the period of their association,” said Ms D’Ath.

Ms D’Ath said she took into consideration that the relationship was an indirect association that related to a common interest in one project. The finding comes as Star faces an inquiry by Adam Bell SC into whether it is suitable to retain its Sydney licence. That inquiry is scheduled to end tomorrow after today remaining in closed session.

“This relationship was promptly ended when the business associate was arrested and his reputation became known,” she said. “I am satisfied CTFE has improved its engagement and transparency with the Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation(OLGR) and is now very forthcoming with sharing information with the regulator to the standard the community expects when doing business in Queensland.”

Lighting testing at Queen’s Wharf

She said investigators reviewed the original suitability investigation conducted by OLGR, and found it was conducted with diligence, due care and appropriate scope and that the findings of that investigation were reasonable and consistent with the evidence gathered.

“Finally, CTFE has agreed to a number of actions to ensure it continues to improve its local business practices and remain associated with the multi-billion-dollar Queens Wharf development,” she said.

A Chow Tai Fook Enterprises spokesperson said the company understood the important role the OLGR plays in maintaining the integrity of the Queensland gaming environment and will continue to work constructively on its assurance plan.

Under the assurance plan, CTFE has agreed to update its policies, procedures and training and to appoint a Brisbane-based senior executive, it said.

“CTFE is a global investor with investments in 27 countries and is committed to the highest operating standards,” the spokesperson said. “We have a long-term interest in investing in Australia, are genuinely excited about the Queen’s Wharf project and can’t wait to play a part to help transform Brisbane ahead of the 2032 Olympics.”