Queensland casino operators to face tougher gambling laws

The Queensland Government is proposing tougher gambling laws to help prevent criminal influence and exploitation in casinos while also being a response to recent inquiries into casinos by other states.

The reforms are considered to be examples of best practice casino regulation and will be in place before the opening of the new casino at Queen’s Wharf to be operated by The Star.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Shannon Fentiman said the proposed reforms in the Casino Control and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2022 aim to improve compliance requirements, increase penalties and push for more gambling harm minimisation measures.

Minister Fentiman advised “this Bill will ensure Queenslanders can have confidence in the integrity of our casino laws.

“These reforms seek to address concerns which have emerged from the public inquiries into casinos operated by Crown Resorts in New South Wales, Victoria and Western Australia, as well as investigations underway into the Star Entertainment Group.

“As a result of the changes, there will be significant pecuniary penalties as a disciplinary action of up to $50 million.

Further changes to the legislation may be considered at the conclusion of current investigations into The Star Entertainment Group.

The Attorney-General said the Bill will also include changes to help deliver the Government’s commitment to transition to safe cashless gaming.

Minister Fentiman noted “moving towards more traceable electronic transactions was also a recommendation of the Finkelstein Inquiry into the Crown Casino to prevent money laundering.

“This Bill will modernise Queensland’s gambling legislation to allow new payment methods and systems to be considered for use, provided they are safe and reliable.

“We will also ensure that we can maintain our strong gambling harm minimisation measures.

“These amendments will not only provide the government with the flexibility to consider new and innovative approaches to gaming, but will ensure that emergent technology can be subjected to appropriate controls in order to address potential risks. 

The Bill also introduces changes for charities and not-for-profits by introducing a mutual recognition scheme for fundraising approvals in Queensland.

Charities registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission and who notify the Office of Fair Trading can be deemed a registered charity in Queensland and can fundraise in Queensland.

Charities who are not registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission may still seek registration directly from the Office of Fair Trading, and will no longer have to await the conclusion of a 28-day objections period before their applications are finalised.

Image: The Star Grand Hotel and The Star Brisbane