The Star to go smoke-free by end of 2022

All of the Australian group’s properties, including its US$2.53bn project in Brisbane, will find solutions to eliminate indoor smoking. 

Australia.- Casino operator The Star Entertainment Group has committed to making its venues smoke-free indoor environments by the end of 2022.  

The measure covers its New South Wales (NSW) and Queensland properties as well as its AU$3.6 billion (US$2.53 billion) project in Brisbane, Queen’s Wharf. The latter is set to be inaugurated in late 2022.   

The firm said: “The Star Sydney and The Star Gold Coast will transition to the same position over the next two years as appropriate outdoor smoking solutions are installed.” 

Currently, exceptions are made for guests in restricted premium gaming areas and areas designed for international guests, where The Star has installed air filtration. 

The Star said: “Exemptions were designed to ensure casinos were not at a competitive disadvantage against domestic and international rivals in the battle for tourism market share.” 

The Star Entertainment Group Managing Director and CEO, Matt Bekier, said the time was right for change.

He said: “We are seeing fewer and fewer customers wanting to smoke indoors. Over several years we have been gradually reducing the smoking options in our premium gaming areas. 

“This move to go completely smoke-free indoors brings us into alignment with most of the hospitality industry and creates a better working environment for our staff.

“We will cease to operate premium gaming rooms with smoking facilities after a transition period to redesign our existing properties, but no later than the end of 2022.”