DFS spokesman Mackie Chan refused to answer questions about the company’s plans and stated that it was their policy not to comment on ongoing litigation. Local lawyers for DFS did not respond to calls, and the consortium spokesman declined to comment on the claim, indicating that they would address the issue in court. This legal battle follows a separate lawsuit from builder Multiplex against the consortium over design changes and project delays, with potential costs of up to $170 million for the consortium.
Star Entertainment Group is currently awaiting a decision from the state government, expected on May 31, regarding the status of its Queensland casino licenses. The company has already paid $100 million in fines for corporate misconduct and is facing further civil penalties amidst an ongoing inquiry in New South Wales. In a recent market update, Star reported a 10% decrease in revenue for its Treasury casino in Brisbane, attributed to measures taken to address problem gambling and heightened competition from pubs and clubs.
The Queen’s Wharf development project is poised to transform the southern end of Brisbane’s CBD, supported by the construction of a new Albert Street station as part of the Cross River Rail project, scheduled to be operational by 2026. Featuring a connection to South Bank via the Neville Bonner Bridge, the complex will include a sky deck, leisure deck, ballroom, restaurants, bars, apartments, and hotel rooms. Speculation has circulated about the possibility of Myer opening a flagship store at Queen’s Wharf, but the company has not confirmed any plans for such a move after leaving the Queen Street Mall location now known as Uptown.
The impending relocation of the casino from the Treasury buildings to the new Queen’s Wharf complex has created uncertainty regarding the future of a significant portion of George Street. A previous deal to sell the heritage-listed buildings housing the casino and hotel fell through, leaving questions about potential buyers and future development plans for the sites. The ongoing developments in Brisbane’s CBD indicate a period of change and growth, with various legal and business challenges shaping the landscape of the area. The outcome of the litigation involving DFS and the consortium, as well as the decisions regarding Star Entertainment Group’s licenses, will likely have significant implications for the future of the city’s entertainment and hospitality sector.
