Licence Deferral Keeps The Star Under Regulatory Spotlight Until 2026
The Queensland Government has postponed the suspension of The Star Gold Coast's casino licence until September 2026, extending regulatory oversight as the company continues remediation efforts.
- Licence suspension deferred to 30 September 2026
- Special Manager and External Advisor appointments extended to 2026
- The Star acknowledges steady progress on remediation
- Ongoing cooperation with Queensland regulators emphasized
- Uncertainty remains on full licence reinstatement timeline
Licence Suspension Deferred
The Queensland Government has officially deferred the suspension of The Star Gold Coast’s casino licence until 30 September 2026. This marks the second consecutive deferral, following an earlier postponement to September 2025. Alongside this, the appointments of the Special Manager overseeing The Star Gold Coast and the External Advisor for The Star Brisbane have also been extended to the same date.
Regulatory Oversight and Remediation Progress
The Star Entertainment Group, the operator of the Gold Coast casino, has publicly acknowledged the deferral as a recognition of its ongoing remediation efforts. Group CEO Steve McCann highlighted the "steady progress" made on key priorities identified by the Special Manager. The company reiterated its commitment to maintaining a transparent and constructive relationship with regulators, including the Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation and the Queensland Government.
Implications for The Star and Stakeholders
While the deferral provides The Star with additional time to address regulatory concerns, it also extends a period of heightened oversight and uncertainty. The continued presence of the Special Manager and External Advisor underscores the government’s cautious approach to ensuring compliance and suitability as a licence holder. For investors and stakeholders, this development signals both progress and the need for vigilance as the company works toward full licence reinstatement.
Looking Ahead
The announcement stops short of detailing specific remediation milestones or financial impacts, leaving questions about the timeline and conditions for lifting the licence suspension. The Star’s leadership remains focused on demonstrating its suitability and rebuilding confidence among regulators and the market alike.
Bottom Line?
The deferral buys The Star more time but keeps regulatory scrutiny firmly in place.
Questions in the middle?
- What specific remediation milestones must The Star achieve by September 2026?
- How will the extended oversight affect The Star’s financial performance and investor confidence?
- Could further deferrals or additional regulatory measures be on the horizon?