Queensland: independent review launched into Star Entertainment’s casino licences

A casino operator will undergo a review to determine if it’s fit to hold its licences in one state amid allegations of money laundering.

The Queensland government will launch an independent review into Star Entertainment’s casino licences in the state after allegations emerged of money laundering and integrity issues.

Queensland Attorney-General Shannon Fentiman said on Tuesday the government was taking the allegations about the company “very seriously”.

“Investigations by the Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation into The Star are ongoing, and they are continuing to work with the Queensland Police and AUSTRAC,” she said in a statement.

“There will also be an independent expert review into the suitability of The Star to keep its casino licence.”

Attorney-General Shannon Fentiman said the probe is ongoing. Photo: NewsWire / Sarah Marshall

The allegations follow a 36-day NSW inquiry into alleged money laundering, organised crime and international fraud at company venues in that state.

On Tuesday last week, counsel assisting the inquiry, Naomi Sharp, said she recommended that Star should not be found suitable to hold a casino licence in NSW.

“We submit that the evidence in the public hearing establishes that the Star is not suitable to hold the casino licence and that its close associate Star Entertainment is not suitable either,” she said.

“There has not yet been the period of deep reflection which of course will be necessary in order to develop a concrete plan about what … can bring these corporations into a position of suitability.”

The construction of the Star Casino in Southbank, Brisbane. Picture: Steve Pohlner

The Star Entertainment Group owns and runs casinos at The Star Sydney, The Star Gold Coast and Treasury Brisbane.

The company is also a joint venture partner in a $3.6 billion casino project at the Queen’s Wharf in Brisbane.

The project, announced in 2015, aims to transform the Brisbane CBD and is expected to open in the first half of 2023.

The terms of the review will be released following cabinet consideration.