Review into Star Casino’s Queensland operations begins

An inquiry has begun into gambling giant The Star Entertainment Group’s casino operations in Queensland, including whether the casinos actively lured patrons who had been banned from the Sydney Star Casino.

An inquiry into gambling giant The Star Entertainment Group’s casino operations in Queensland kicked off on Thursday, with retired Supreme Court judge Robert Gotterson leading proceedings.

The initial public hearing heard the terms of reference and outlined the three parts the external review would examine – an inquiry into the operation of Star’s Queensland casinos, advice on the ongoing suitability of Star to hold a casino license, and enhanced regulation.

Among the issues the inquiry was set to delve into were the group’s commitment to anti-money laundering practices, management of VIP patrons and high-rollers, and whether the casinos actively lured patrons who had been banned from the Sydney Star Casino.

“I would encourage those who have information relevant to the terms of reference to provide that information by making contact with the solicitor’s assisting the review,” Mr Gotterson said.

“If that material is such as requires it to be explored with witnesses, it should be provided as soon as possible.”

Retired judge Robert Gotterson is heading an inquiry into Star’s Queensland casinos.

The group operates The Star Gold Coast and the Treasury Casino in Brisbane, and is also behind the $3.6 billion Queen’s Wharf development set to open early next year.

Attorney-General Shannon Fentiman first flagged the independent probe in June, and announced the inquiry would have “all the powers, authorities, rights, privileges, protection and jurisdiction of a commission of inquiry”.

“There have been serious allegations made, along with a number of public inquiries and regulator investigations over recent years,” Ms Fentiman said.

“Given the weight of evidence that has emerged regarding the operations of The Star Sydney and the shared governance and operational arrangements of Star Group more broadly, it is important the inquiry can seek information from anyone it sees fit.”

This would include Mr Gotterson being permitted to interview and directly question Star employees, as well as review evidence given to the ongoing New South Wales Bell Review and ongoing investigations by the Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation.

Lawyers for The Star told the hearing it would “be fully co-operating with this inquiry”.

The inquiry was adjourned until August 23, with the review due to deliver its report to Ms Fentiman by September 30.