Minister Kate Jones set for high-powered meetings with Las Vegas, Macau casino giants
TOURISM Minister Kate Jones and her department heads will travel to Las Vegas and Macau to discuss proposals to build a “global tourism hub” that includes extensive accommodation, dining, shopping, entertainment and gaming facilities.
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GLOBAL casino giants are lining up to put their chips all-in on Queensland, with Tourism Minister Kate Jones set to meet representatives from more than 10 proponents over the next month.
Ms Jones will visit Las Vegas and senior department heads will travel to Macau over the next month to meet with the likes of MGM Grand and Caesars Entertainment to discuss their proposals for a “global tourism hub” in the Sunshine State.
Currently, only the Gold Coast and Cairns have casino licences available, with keen interests being taken in both sites by proponents.
It is understood the State Government will only hand a licence to a holistic proposal that includes extensive accommodation, dining, shopping, entertainment and gaming facilities, similar to that of entertainment mecca Las Vegas where resorts turn over billions of dollars each year.
Ms Jones said the shift towards building global tourism hubs ensured the best possible outcome for Queenslanders and prospective tourists.
“In coming years it’s crucial that we work with the private sector to create more tourism attractions to boost Queensland’s visitor market,” she said.
“Transformative infrastructure like global tourism hubs in important destinations like the Gold Coast will help to boost this sector.
“I have been approached by some of the world’s most successful entertainment companies keen to invest in Queensland. But we’re working to make sure we get the balance right for Queenslanders.”
The Courier-Mail understands Star Entertainment is lobbying hard to prevent any new competitors from entering the space on the Gold Coast and are developing a proposal of their own to take out the spare license.
It comes as Star have recently finished a $345 million upgrade to their existing hotel and casino in an attempt to fend off any potential rivals on the Gold Coast.
MGM this year opened a new US$3.4 billion resort in Macau which focuses on family-oriented tourism instead of high end gambling.
The 35-story, 1390-room casino includes a $100 million theatre which can change for different events, along with a range of shopping and dining options.
Originally published as Minister Kate Jones set for high-powered meetings with Las Vegas, Macau casino giants
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