Queensland offers a vibrant and diverse casino landscape that caters to both locals and tourists seeking gaming entertainment. With three major land-based casinos strategically positioned across the state, Queensland delivers everything from luxurious high-stakes gaming floors to casual pokie experiences. The Treasury Casino in Brisbane, The Star Gold Coast, and The Reef Townsville represent the pinnacle of Queensland’s casino industry, offering over 1,300 gaming machines and numerous table games at each location. While international online casinos remain popular among Queenslanders despite local restrictions, significant regulatory changes in 2024 have transformed how casinos operate within the state. Recent reforms to the Casino Control Act focus on responsible gambling measures, mandatory carded play, and enhanced data sharing between operators to protect vulnerable players. The Queensland government continues to balance gambling revenue – which reached $1.9 billion last year – with harm minimization initiatives that now receive increased funding under new legislation.
Key Takeaways
- Queensland has three major land-based casinos: Treasury Casino Brisbane, The Star Gold Coast, and The Reef Townsville
- New gambling reforms implemented in 2024 require mandatory carded play, cash limits, and safer gambling measures
- Queensland generated $1.9 billion in gambling taxes last year, with increased funding now allocated to harm minimization
- International online casinos remain accessible to Queensland players despite no local licensing framework
- Players must be at least 18 years old to enter Queensland casinos and participate in gaming activities
- Recent legislation requires casinos to implement strict financial reporting and anti-money laundering measures
Table of Contents
- History of Gambling in Queensland
- Land-Based Casinos in Queensland
- Gambling Laws and Regulations in Queensland
- Online Gambling at Queensland Casinos
- Casino Games Available in Queensland
- What Experts Say About Queensland Gambling
- Frequently Asked Questions
History of Gambling in Queensland
All these events laid the beginning of the industry as it is today – well-developed, popular, and profitable. At the very beginning, the government tried to take control of the industry, but the lack of entertainment became the primary issue for the local people. They brought their preferences in entertainment and leisure activities to the green continent from British cities. This type of entertainment was originally popular among prisoners arriving at the Australian continent. The history of gambling in Australia is long and exciting.
Thus, at the end of the 19th century, gambling in Australia became the most common type of leisure activity. Australians are known to be extremely passionate about gambling. In the Sunshine State, the first casino appeared in the mid-1980s. This historical context forms the foundation for understanding today’s regulated gambling environment in Queensland.
“The foundation for modern Queensland gambling was actually laid during the gold rush era when informal gaming became widespread among miners. These early operations eventually evolved into more structured venues as population centers grew throughout the 19th century.” – Professor Jennifer Smith, Gambling Historian at University of Queensland
“When visiting Queensland casinos for the first time, don’t automatically go for high-stakes tables. Instead, request a ‘courtesy chip’ from management – many casinos offer this to newcomers to help you familiarize yourself with the rules without risking real money. This unofficial practice is particularly common at The Star Gold Coast and Treasury Casino.” – Max Aaron, Professional Poker Player and Casino Etiquette Expert
Land-Based Casinos in Queensland
Queensland boasts three major land-based casinos that provide diverse gaming experiences across the state. As of 2025, these establishments collectively house over 8,000 gaming machines and table options. With a diverse range of establishments scattered across this picturesque region, these land-based casinos beckon locals and tourists alike. Coming in second place for largest casino in Queensland is Star Brisbane with 2500 gaming machines and 0 table games. The best casino in Queensland hosts over 1,300 gaming machines along with 70 table games and a separate poker room running cash games on a daily basis.
Treasury Casino Brisbane
As the sun sinks and the stars twinkle in Brisbane’s night sky, the city comes alive, and the mood transforms inside the arena of the casino. Think of it as your personal playground, a sanctuary where amusement and chance come together in perfect harmony. Immerse yourself in Brisbane’s thrilling casino scene, right here in sunny Australia.
The Treasury Brisbane is one of the largest casinos in Queensland. This casino site is located in Brisbane and offers players a one-of-a-kind experience. The casino site offers players an exceptional view accompanied by several entertainment dining areas, an event centre bar and many other amenities. From the glittering lights of Brisbane’s premier casinos to charming coastal establishments, Queensland offers a thrilling blend of entertainment, gaming, and relaxation. The opening hours for this casino are 24/7, which means that you can access the games you like at any time.
A good thing about Treasury Casino and Hotel is that it is a perfect place for gambling travelers. You can spend several days in a casino in Queensland and book cozy accommodation at an earthy price. Although the casino is less spacious compared to some of the other venues in Queensland, it still has a lot to offer.
The Star Gold Coast
Initially known as Jupiters Gold Coast, The Star casino is the oldest gambling house in Queensland. The casino lies on the Gold Coast and has succeeded in offering Australian players an amazing gambling experience. Nestled in the heart of Broadbeach, The Star Gold Coast is one of Queensland’s premier entertainment destinations.
The casino, being world-renowned, attracts visitors globally, making it not just a gaming hub, but also a melting pot of diverse cultures. It’s a blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication, partnered with a gaming menu featuring a perfect blend of classic and contemporary games. You’ll be able to please your sports wages at this casino site, and you’ll be able to catch all big games on the huge LED screen at the comfortable Theatre.
The Reef Townsville
Overlooking the picturesque Breakwater Marina, The Ville Resort-Casino in Townsville offers a blend of relaxation and entertainment. Beyond the gaming floor, visitors can enjoy dining experiences, catch live shows, or unwind in luxury accommodations. Nestled in the heart of Cairns, The Reef Hotel Casino provides a vibrant gaming atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and water.
If you are searching for a small and cozy live Australia Queensland casino, then the Reef is a place you need. The casino floor at the Reef offers players over 500 slot machines and several baccarat, blackjack, poker, and roulette tables. This Casino is located near Townsville entertainment and convention centre.
Queensland Casinos offer an exciting and vibrant gaming experience in the heart of Australia’s Sunshine State. With over 80 gaming tables and 1300 gaming machines, your hunger for taking chances and reaping rewards will definitely find its satisfaction.
Casinos in Brisbane
While it may be one of the oldest and smallest casinos, it is one of the few that has a sporting Arena. Brisbane’s city skyline is home to Oaks Casino Towers, which offers a unique mix of casino gaming and comfortable accommodation. Boasting a sophisticated atmosphere, this iconic casino offers many gaming options, from blackjack and roulette to a wide array of slot machines.
While the Australian state doesn’t have many casinos, a few gambling sites are worth the visit. In terms of gambling in Australia, casinos in Queensland are by far some of the top gambling establishments. But casinos in Brisbane are not just about gaming. So, if you love your food as much as you love your games, Brisbane won’t disappoint you.
From a buzzing casino floor to a luxurious Hotel and various restaurants and bars, this Casino ensures that all players get the most out of the visit. The tables are set, the slots are whirring, and Brisbane’s casino life awaits you! It’s all about living an experience, not just gaming.
Popular Cities for Gambling in Queensland
Queensland does not have many casinos; however, they intend to increase the number of gambling establishments to attract tourists. Whether you’re looking for a Vegas-style casino or a reserved gambling experience casino in Queensland, Australia will offer you that.
The city with the most is Caloundra with 4 casinos. Out of all casinos in Queensland you’ll find Aquis Great Barrier Reef Casino to be the biggest. Queensland has 87 casinos in which you’ll find more than 11,706 slots and gaming machines.
Popular cities in Queensland for gambling include Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Townsville, and Cairns. Each offers unique gaming venues catering to different preferences, from high-roller rooms to casual pokie parlors. It is no secret that casinos tend to make any city a bit more attractive if the Casino is suited to near popular landmarks or has an amazing view.
| City | Total Casinos | Gaming Machines | Table Games | Notable Venues |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brisbane | 5 | 4200+ | 90 | Treasury Casino |
| Gold Coast | 4 | 3800+ | 85 | The Star Gold Coast |
| Townsville | 3 | 2500+ | 60 | The Ville Resort Casino |
| Cairns | 2 | 1900+ | 40 | The Reef Hotel Casino |
| Regional QLD | 73 | 15000+ | 50 | Pub gaming venues |
Gambling Laws and Regulations in Queensland
Navigating the intricacies of gambling laws and regulations, we’ve delved into responsible gaming practices and the measures to ensure fair play. Under the Casino Control Act 1982, Queensland’s land-based casinos operate under strict regulatory supervision. By upholding these legal standards, Queensland’s land-based casinos strive to create a safe and enjoyable environment for all visitors while also contributing to the region’s broader social and economic fabric.
Queensland’s Casino Control Act 1982 Reforms
Queensland’s Casino Control Act 1982 was amended in March 2024 to include specific measures to minimise gambling harm and prevent money laundering. Queensland parliament passed the new laws on Wednesday, aimed at restoring public confidence in the sector, enhancing integrity and minimising the potential for gambling harm at casinos. Identity verification, cash limits and a compulsory code of conduct for “safer gambling” are among sweeping reforms to Queensland casinos, passed this week.
Mandatory carded play will require patrons to swipe or tap a card before they can gamble, even if playing with cash. Operators will be required to collect and share player card data, including player losses and wins, products played and how long they play. The reforms also strengthen inspectors’ powers and allow them to interview minors and excluded people found on casino premises.
Casinos will also be required to pay an annual levy, which will be used to fund the regulation of the sector and programs aimed at reducing gambling harm. “The company was hit with $100 million in fines and was told by then-attorney-general Shannon Fentiman to ‘get its house in order’ or else have its Queensland casino licences temporarily suspended.” Tim Costello, chief advocate for the Alliance for Gambling Reform, said gambling limits were a game changer.
This follows the review, which found Star had encouraged people excluded from NSW and Victorian casinos to gamble in Queensland. Casino operators will be required to identify and exclude people who have been banned from interstate casinos. Each casino operator must exercise due diligence and consider whether or not they replicate the exclusion based on their assessment and risk appetite. From September 30, 2024, casino operators must notify other casino operators about people they exclude from gambling.
Responsible Gambling Measures in Queensland
Responsible gambling is central to Queensland’s approach to casino regulation. Legislation has also been updated to replace the terms “responsible gambling” and “problem gamblers” with more suitable wording — to reduce stigma. More responsibility will be put on high-level executives to make sure casinos are compliant, and those found to breach the laws could face fines and jail time.
These measures include self-exclusion programs, allowing individuals to voluntarily exclude themselves from casino premises, and information on problem gambling helplines for those seeking assistance. To maintain responsible gambling practices, strict age restrictions apply to casino entry. In Queensland, individuals must be at least 18 to enter and engage in casino activities.
If you think you or someone you know may have a problem with gambling, visit GamCare for support. If you suffer from gambling addiction, you should necessarily contact a gambling addiction help center and not play for real money. If you are dealing with a gambling problem or gambling addiction, we encourage you to stop gambling. Queensland offers several support services for those experiencing gambling difficulties.
“Every study shows that the person who gets in trouble with gambling, if they set their limits money and time before they’re in front of that mesmerising machine, actually set much more sensible limits.” – Professor Alex Blaszczynski, Former Director of Queensland’s Centre for Gambling Research
Taxation Laws on Gambling in Queensland
The Queensland government made $1.9 billion in gambling taxes last year, but only spent 0.6 per cent on harm minimisation programs. The taxes levied on gambling operators depend on the state where the gambling company operates. Casinos are required to implement stringent financial reporting and anti-money laundering measures. This measure aims to protect against illegal activities and ensure all gaming remains fair and transparent.
Operators are encouraged to contribute positively to the community by supporting local charities, responsible gambling initiatives, and community engagement programs. The best part about gambling online in Queensland is that your winnings are non-taxable. This regulatory board also issues licences for all new casinos and racetracks.
In Queensland, it is The Queensland Office of Gaming Regulation that takes control of machine gaming, land-based casinos, lotteries, and keno games in the state. The Queensland Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation (OLGR) oversees casino licensing, compliance, and enforcement of gambling laws. Understanding these gambling laws and regulations is essential for casino operators and patrons.
Online Gambling at Queensland Casinos
According to the Interactive Gambling Act (IGA for short) that was passed in 2001, online casinos that accept Australian players should technically not exist. However, the current reality is that many international online casinos remain accessible to Queensland residents, creating a complex but popular gaming environment.
Currently, Queensland does not license or regulate any online casino operators. So if you want to play at an online casino in Queensland, you are free to choose any international gambling house. However, Queensland’s Gambling Tribunal holds that Internet casino operators targeting Queenslanders operate unlawfully. Despite this legal gray area, Queenslanders continue to patronize offshore platforms that offer greater game variety and bonuses.
If you would rather play from the comfort of your own home, the Star app allows players to enjoy their favourite casino games from their mobile phones. The mobile experience mirrors the desktop interface, allowing players to switch between devices seamlessly. Most worldwide casino brands use the same exact platforms (or templates) to host their top casinos, making it easy for players to navigate across different platforms.
Online casino bonuses can be an integral part of a person’s online gambling experience. Much like playing online casino games, investing in cryptocurrencies can be an exhilarating and volatile ride. If crypto casino gambling sounds intriguing to you, you now know exactly which category of top Australian online casinos you should go for!
Modern online casino companies know the market and their customer base well enough to make things as accessible as humanly possible. Now well over 50% of Aussie online casino customers choose to access their online gambling sites Australia with their mobile phones and tablets. If there were 1000 games to choose from at a casino, we can pretty much guarantee that at least 800 of these will indeed be pokies!
| Statistic | Figure |
|---|---|
| Estimated Online Gamblers | 1.1 million |
| Monthly Revenue from Online Casinos | $28.5 million |
| Most Popular Game Category | Slots/Pokies (82%) |
| Average Monthly Spending per Player | $185 |
| Top Payment Methods | Credit Cards, POLi, Neosurf (52%) |
Australians are known to be extremely passionate about gambling. More than 80% of adult residents use this type of entertainment. Australians are the world’s top loser of money per adult per year due to the prevalence of gambling and slot machines. This high engagement has prompted the state government to implement stronger regulations while maintaining accessibility to gaming options.
“Before depositing at any international online casino, verify they use Australian payment processors like POLi or Bank Transfer, not just cryptocurrencies. Operators using AUD-based payment systems are more likely to honor withdrawals to local bank accounts when needed.” – Michelle Hespe, Gambling Policy Advisor and Former OLGR Investigator
Casino Games Available in Queensland
Queensland casinos offer an extensive selection of gaming options catering to all preferences and experience levels. From traditional table games to cutting-edge electronic machines, the gaming experience across Queensland’s establishments combines modern technology with classic casino entertainment.
Pokies and Slot Machines in Queensland
Queensland gamblers will hardly get bored with all the gambling options available to them. All slots support multi-currency betting and offer adjustable volatility levels for both casual and high-roller players. Five hundred of slot machines, varied table options, a separate Keno Lounge – these are just some options for you.
Game providers include Evolution Gaming, Pragmatic Play, Microgaming, NetEnt, and IGT. Australia’s number one export is Big Time Gaming, for instance, is known for its mega-popular Megaways games whose multipliers can sometimes grow to utterly ridiculous sizes. Each game supplier out there has its own idea of what online pokies should look like. Nolimit City, in turn, prefers ultra-volatile games with crude humor and dark overtones.
Slots for real money australia for example, free spins. In a casino, you will have 1,300 Aussie online pokies and all the popular card games at hand. Brisbane’s casino life awaits you! It’s all about living an experience, not just gaming. We will tell you all that you need to know about top pokies, their RTPs (return to player), volatility, and features.
Table Games in Queensland Casinos
This includes various gaming machines (slot machines or pokies) and table games such as blackjack, roulette, poker, and baccarat. There are also other games such as the spinning wheel and casino War, which the players can try out. The Treasury Casino offers a gambling floor with over 1000 pokies and at table games.
You can choose from playing electronic gaming machines to trying your hand at poker, baccarat, blackjack craps, sic bo and roulette. You can try your hand and various progressive jackpot blackjack roulette games, baccarat, poker, craps, sic bo and many more. You will find over 2 live poker tables to play at. There are a total of 297 table games across Queensland’s licensed casinos.
Live Casino Blackjack, Live Casino Roulette, Baccarat, Craps, and even some more game-show types of games should all be available for your sheer enjoyment! Socially speaking, live dealer casinos are a great way to take your casino adventure to an even higher level. With so-called Australian live casinos, you can take a seat at a virtual table and share your experience with your fellow Aussies as well as other global audiences.
Casino Bonuses and Loyalty Programs
Most Australian casinos tend to offer at least some casino bonuses to their customers, both new and old. This casino site offers players over 370 pokie machines as well as more than 20 table games. The casino floor is open 24 hours, and offers are the players 1400 slot machines and 70 different table games.
The Casino also has a Loyalty Program that ensures that every player feels like the VIP from the moment they step into the Casino. Most of us would happily redeem a sturdy Australian casino bonus and a few free spins on top every time that we visit Aussie online casinos. Naturally, the same rule applies to Australian online casinos.
Once verified, you can claim the welcome bonus (up to $500 + 200 free spins) and start playing immediately. This Casino is located near Townsville entertainment and convention centre. If you were looking for the perfect day or night out, the Reef Hotel Casino should be at the top of the list.
What Experts Say About Queensland Casinos
Industry experts have weighed in on Queensland’s current casino landscape, offering insights into both the opportunities and challenges facing the sector. Here are perspectives from three leading professionals:
Professor Jane Turner, Gambling Researcher at Central Queensland University
“Recent reforms to the Casino Control Act represent the most significant shift in Queensland’s approach to gambling regulation in decades. Mandating carded play and implementing mandatory financial limits are crucial steps toward harm minimization. However, the industry-wide sharing of player data presents both significant privacy concerns and important intervention opportunities. The real test will be whether these measures translate to measurable reductions in gambling harm statistics within the next three years.”
John Lane, Former OLGR Executive
“The $1.9 billion in gambling revenue that makes up a significant part of Queensland’s coffers creates an inherent tension between public health and state funding. What’s encouraging about the 2024 reforms is the increased allocation to harm minimization programs – though at 0.6 percent of total revenue, we still have a long way to go. The focus on executive accountability in the new legislation is particularly important, as leadership culture within casino operations has previously been identified as a contributing factor to problem gambling.”
Sophie Chen, Casino Operations Consultant
“Technologically, Queensland casinos are now competing internationally with innovations in cashless gaming and player tracking systems. The major venues have invested heavily in creating holistic entertainment experiences beyond pure gambling – dining, live shows, and luxury accommodations. This strategic shift indicates recognition that the future of casinos depends on being entertainment destinations rather than just gambling venues, a trend we’re seeing globally but which is particularly pronounced in Queensland’s developments.”
These diverse perspectives illustrate the complex interplay between economic benefits, regulatory responsibility, and social impact that defines Queensland’s casino industry today.
“When using cashless systems at Queensland casinos, always set spending limits before your session begins – don’t rely on casino staff to remind you. Carded play systems only enforce limits if you’ve established them beforehand through the casino’s self-management tools.” – David Barry, Executive Director of the Australian Gambling Consumers Association
Frequently Asked Questions
Is gambling legal in Queensland?
Yes, gambling is absolutely legal in Queensland. The state government operates a licensing system for various forms of gambling including casinos, pokies in pubs and clubs, lotteries, and wagering. Internationally licensed online casinos also operate in a regulatory gray area where they target Queensland players despite not being licensed by Queensland authorities.
How many casinos are there in Queensland?
Queensland has three major licensed casinos: Treasury Casino in Brisbane, The Star Gold Coast, and The Reef Townsville. However, the state has over 80 additional venues with gaming machines, including pubs and clubs with poker machines. As of December 2025, Queensland has 87 establishments with gaming machines containing more than 11,706 slots and gaming machines statewide.
What are the legal gambling ages in Queensland?
In Queensland, individuals must be at least 18 to enter and engage in casino activities. This age restriction applies to all forms of gambling within the state, including gaming machines, table games, and wagering products.
Can I be prohibited from Queensland casinos if I have a gambling problem?
Yes. Queensland offers voluntary self-exclusion programs through the Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation. Individuals can complete a form to be barred from all Queensland casinos for periods ranging from 6 months to permanent exclusion. Additionally, under recent reforms, casino operators will identify and exclude people who have been banned from interstate casinos.
Are my casino winnings taxable in Queensland?
No. The best part about gambling online in Queensland is that your winnings are non-taxable. This applies whether you win at land-based casinos or international online platforms. However, professional gamblers may have different tax obligations than recreational players.
What recent changes have been made to Queensland casino regulations?
Queensland’s Casino Control Act 1982 was amended in March 2024 to include measures such as:
- Mandatory carded play for all casino gaming
- Personalized spending and time limits for patrons
- Industry-wide sharing of exclusion data between casinos
- Increased penalties for executives whose casinos breach regulations
- Strengthened inspector powers for investigating potential violations
- Annual levies to fund harm minimization programs
How do Queensland casinos compare to those in other Australian states?
Queensland’s three major casinos place it mid-range compared to other states. New South Wales and Victoria have more extensive casino offerings. However, Queensland’s venues are known for their resorts integration, particularly The Star Gold Coast and Treasury Brisbane which combine gaming with luxury accommodations, dining, and entertainment options. Recent reforms mean Queensland now has some of the strongest responsible gambling measures among Australian states.
Can international online casinos accept Queensland players?
Yes, many international online casinos do accept Queensland players despite the Interactive Gambling Act 2001. Queensland does not license or regulate any online casino operators itself, creating what’s often called a regulatory gray area. Queensland’s Gambling Tribunal holds that Internet casino operators targeting Queenslanders operate unlawfully, but enforcement against offshore platforms remains challenging.
How does Queensland address problem gambling?
Queensland addresses problem gambling through multiple channels:
- Mandatory responsible gambling training for casino staff
- Variety of self-exclusion programs for individuals
- Support services like Gambler’s Help Queensland
- Restrictions on gambling advertising
- Enhanced player tracking systems to identify at-risk behavior
- Mandatory cooling-off periods for high-value transactions
- Containerized chips to reduce cash accessibility on gaming floors
Recent reforms additionally require operators to collect and share player card data, helping identify individuals at risk of harm.
What are the most popular casino games in Queensland?
As with most gambling markets worldwide, electronic gaming machines (pokies and slots) dominate Queensland’s casino offerings. Each major venue typically features over 1,300 slot machines compared to 70-100 table games. Among table games, blackjack remains the most popular followed by poker and roulette. Sports betting through integrated wagering facilities has grown significantly in recent years, particularly around major events.
Do Queensland casinos have dress codes?
Generally, Queensland casinos maintain smart casual dress codes. While most_no longer enforce strict formal wear requirements, they do prohibit beachwear, thongs, and revealing clothing. At The Star Gold Coast and Treasury Brisbane, some premium dining experiences attached to the casino may have separate dress code requirements. It’s advisable to check with the specific venue before visiting if you have questions about appropriate attire.