Queen’s Wharf Brisbane Act 2016 ratifies and makes law a casino development agreement for the Queen’s Wharf area. It controls who may hold voting, non‑voting or convertible interests in named ‘relevant entities’ and gives the Minister or Governor‑in‑Council powers to approve, investigate, revoke approvals and force disposal. The Act also changes how State land is granted, leased, converted and registered for the development, affecting the licensee, investors, landholders and the State.
This Act ratifies and gives legal effect to a casino-related commercial agreement for the Queen’s Wharf development, creates a bespoke ownership and control regime for the companies, trusts and land that participate in that project, and modifies land‑tenure law and disclosure obligations to facilitate State commitments in that precinct. The Act’s stated purposes include ratifying an agreement for a casino in the Queen’s Wharf priority development area and enacting that agreement as law, prescribing how entities may become or cease to be parties to the agreement, setting requirements for holding interests in parties to the agreement, and providing for interactions with other laws (s 3). Under section 7, references to the Act include the casino agreement; section 7 also records that, under section 10 (not reproduced here), the casino agreement has effect as if it were State law.
Mechanically, the Act does several distinct things.
It creates an ownership-control and disclosure regime for a class of "relevant entities" linked to the casino agreement, defining relevant entity, relevant interest, voting power and related terms with reference to the Corporations Act and bespoke trust rules (chs 1 and 4, especially ss 16-19, 17-18, 19).
It sets specific thresholds for voting power, non‑voting interests and convertible securities above which prior written approval is required, and prescribes who grants the approvals (Minister or Governor in Council) and the pathway for conditional or revoked approvals (ss 20-26). It links suitability checks to investigations under the Control Act (s 24, cross‑ref to Control Act ss 20, 30).
It creates notice and disclosure obligations, including fast timeframes (eg 2 business days to respond to a disclosure notice (s 40); 5 business days to notify a relevant entity when voting power exceeds 10% (s 28(1)); and obligations on entities aware of a >10% holding to notify the Minister within 10 business days (s 28(2)-(3))). Regulations may require wider reporting (s 27).
Current sections
Direct links to the current provisions in Queen’s Wharf Brisbane Act 2016.
83
ch.1-pt.1
Introduction
Introduction
sec.1
Short title
sec.1 Short title
This Act may be cited as the Queen’s Wharf Brisbane Act 2016 .
sec.2
Commencement
sec.2 Commencement
This Act commences on a day to be fixed by proclamation.
sec.3
Purposes
sec.3 Purposes
The main purposes of this Act are the following—
to provide for the ratification of an agreement for a casino to be located within the Queen’s Wharf priority development area;
to enact the agreement as a law;
to provide for the way in which an entity may become, or stop being, a party to the agreement;
to state the requirements for holding interests in relation to an entity that is a party to, or referred to in, the agreement;
to provide for the interaction between this Act and other laws.
(a) to provide for the ratification of an agreement for a casino to be located within the Queen’s Wharf priority development area;
(b) to enact the agreement as a law;
(c) to provide for the way in which an entity may become, or stop being, a party to the agreement;
(d) to state the requirements for holding interests in relation to an entity that is a party to, or referred to in, the agreement;
(e) to provide for the interaction between this Act and other laws.
sec.4
Relationship with other Acts generally
sec.4 Relationship with other Acts generally
If a provision of this Act is inconsistent with another Act, the provision prevails over the other Act to the extent of the inconsistency.
Subsection (1) does not affect a provision of this Act or another Act that expressly deals with the interaction between this Act and the other Act.
(sec.4-ssec.1) If a provision of this Act is inconsistent with another Act, the provision prevails over the other Act to the extent of the inconsistency.
(sec.4-ssec.2) Subsection (1) does not affect a provision of this Act or another Act that expressly deals with the interaction between this Act and the other Act.
sec.5
Act binds all persons
sec.5 Act binds all persons
This Act binds all persons, including the State.
Nothing in this Act makes the State liable to be prosecuted for an offence.
(sec.5-ssec.1) This Act binds all persons, including the State.
(sec.5-ssec.2) Nothing in this Act makes the State liable to be prosecuted for an offence.
ch.1-pt.2
Interpretation
Interpretation
sec.6
Definitions
sec.6 Definitions
The dictionary in schedule 2 defines particular words used in this Act.
sec.7
References to this Act and provisions
sec.7 References to this Act and provisions
Unless the context otherwise requires, a reference to this Act, or a provision of this Act, includes a reference to the casino agreement, or a provision of the agreement.
Under section 10 , the casino agreement has effect as if it were a law of the State.
sec.8
Different drafting practice not to affect meaning
sec.8 Different drafting practice not to affect meaning
This section applies if—
a provision of the casino agreement expresses an idea in particular words; and
another provision of this Act appears to express the same idea in different words for the purpose of giving effect to the agreement.
The ideas are taken not to be different merely because different words are used.
(sec.8-ssec.1) This section applies if— a provision of the casino agreement expresses an idea in particular words; and another provision of this Act appears to express the same idea in different words for the purpose of giving effect to the agreement.
(sec.8-ssec.2) The ideas are taken not to be different merely because different words are used.
(a) a provision of the casino agreement expresses an idea in particular words; and
(b) another provision of this Act appears to express the same idea in different words for the purpose of giving effect to the agreement.
sec.9
Meaning of casino agreement
sec.9 Meaning of casino agreement
The casino agreement is the agreement ratified under section 10 , as amended from time to time under section 11 .
ch.4-pt.1
Preliminary
Preliminary
sec.16
Definitions for chapter
sec.16 Definitions for chapter
In this chapter—
associate , of a person in relation to a relevant entity, has the meaning given under the Corporations Act , sections 12 and 16 (1) .
convertible securities , in a relevant entity, means securities in any class that are convertible into interests in the entity.
interest , in a relevant entity, means a voting interest or non-voting interest in the entity.
managed investment scheme see the Corporations Act , section 9 .
non-voting interest , in a relevant entity, means—
if the entity is a trust—an interest in the trust, other than a voting interest, within the meaning of the Corporations Act as if the trust were a managed investment scheme; or
In relation to trusts, see also section 19 .
otherwise—a non-voting share within the meaning of the Corporations Act .
relevant entity see section 17 .
relevant interest , in interests or convertible securities in a relevant entity, see section 18 .
required approval means prior written approval given under the provision in which the reference appears.
security means—
a security mentioned in the Corporations Act , section 92 (3) ; or
an interest in a managed investment scheme, other than a registered scheme within the meaning of the Corporations Act ; or
An interest in a registered scheme is a security mentioned in paragraph (a) .
an interest in a trust that, but for the operation of section 19 , would not be a managed investment scheme because of paragraph (e) of the definition managed investment scheme under the Corporations Act , section 9 .
voting interest , in a relevant entity, means—
if the entity is a trust—a voting interest within the meaning of the Corporations Act as if the trust were a managed investment scheme; or
In relation to trusts, see also section 19 .
otherwise—a voting share within the meaning of the Corporations Act .
voting power , of a person in a relevant entity, has the meaning given under the Corporations Act , section 610 .
A person’s voting power in a relevant entity that is a body corporate does not include voting power in a relevant entity that is a trust of which the body corporate is a trustee.
See also section 19 in relation to trusts.
Under part 2 , division 1 , a person must comply with the approval requirements separately in relation to—
voting power in a relevant entity that is a body corporate; and
voting power in a relevant entity that is a trust of which the body corporate is a trustee.
(a) if the entity is a trust—an interest in the trust, other than a voting interest, within the meaning of the Corporations Act as if the trust were a managed investment scheme; or Note— In relation to trusts, see also section 19 .
(b) otherwise—a non-voting share within the meaning of the Corporations Act .
(a) a security mentioned in the Corporations Act , section 92 (3) ; or
(b) an interest in a managed investment scheme, other than a registered scheme within the meaning of the Corporations Act ; or Note— An interest in a registered scheme is a security mentioned in paragraph (a) .
(c) an interest in a trust that, but for the operation of section 19 , would not be a managed investment scheme because of paragraph (e) of the definition managed investment scheme under the Corporations Act , section 9 .
(a) if the entity is a trust—a voting interest within the meaning of the Corporations Act as if the trust were a managed investment scheme; or Note— In relation to trusts, see also section 19 .
(b) otherwise—a voting share within the meaning of the Corporations Act .
1 A person’s voting power in a relevant entity that is a body corporate does not include voting power in a relevant entity that is a trust of which the body corporate is a trustee.
2 See also section 19 in relation to trusts.
3 Under part 2 , division 1 , a person must comply with the approval requirements separately in relation to— (a) voting power in a relevant entity that is a body corporate; and (b) voting power in a relevant entity that is a trust of which the body corporate is a trustee.
(a) voting power in a relevant entity that is a body corporate; and
(b) voting power in a relevant entity that is a trust of which the body corporate is a trustee.
(a) voting power in a relevant entity that is a body corporate; and
(b) voting power in a relevant entity that is a trust of which the body corporate is a trustee.
sec.17
Meaning of relevant entity
sec.17 Meaning of relevant entity
Each of the following entities is a relevant entity —
an entity listed in the casino agreement, schedule 3 , column 1 or 2;
an entity that becomes a party to the casino agreement under chapter 3 ;
an entity declared by the Minister, by notice, to be a relevant entity.
A trust, and a trustee of the trust, may be separate relevant entities. See also section 19 in relation to trusts.
However, relevant entity does not include—
an entity that stops being a party to the casino agreement under chapter 3 ; or
an entity declared by the Minister, by notice, not to be a relevant entity.
The Minister may declare an entity to be a relevant entity under subsection (1) (c) only if, in the Minister’s opinion—
the entity can influence the ownership, management or operations of another relevant entity in relation to the Queen’s Wharf complex or the Queen’s Wharf casino; or
the entity is a subsidiary of, or is otherwise controlled or significantly influenced by—
the licensee or IR Holdco; or
another relevant entity that is a trustee of the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust.
The Minister may declare an entity not to be a relevant entity under subsection (2) (b) only if, in the Minister’s opinion—
the entity can not influence the ownership, management or operations of another relevant entity in relation to the Queen’s Wharf complex or the Queen’s Wharf casino; and
the entity is not a subsidiary of, or otherwise controlled or significantly influenced by—
the licensee or IR Holdco; or
another relevant entity that is a trustee of the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust.
A notice under subsection (1) (c) or (2) (b) is subordinate legislation.
The Minister must give a copy of a notice under subsection (1) (c) or (2) (b) to the entity to which the declaration relates.
(sec.17-ssec.1) Each of the following entities is a relevant entity — an entity listed in the casino agreement, schedule 3 , column 1 or 2; an entity that becomes a party to the casino agreement under chapter 3 ; an entity declared by the Minister, by notice, to be a relevant entity. A trust, and a trustee of the trust, may be separate relevant entities. See also section 19 in relation to trusts.
(sec.17-ssec.2) However, relevant entity does not include— an entity that stops being a party to the casino agreement under chapter 3 ; or an entity declared by the Minister, by notice, not to be a relevant entity.
(sec.17-ssec.3) The Minister may declare an entity to be a relevant entity under subsection (1) (c) only if, in the Minister’s opinion— the entity can influence the ownership, management or operations of another relevant entity in relation to the Queen’s Wharf complex or the Queen’s Wharf casino; or the entity is a subsidiary of, or is otherwise controlled or significantly influenced by— the licensee or IR Holdco; or another relevant entity that is a trustee of the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust.
(sec.17-ssec.4) The Minister may declare an entity not to be a relevant entity under subsection (2) (b) only if, in the Minister’s opinion— the entity can not influence the ownership, management or operations of another relevant entity in relation to the Queen’s Wharf complex or the Queen’s Wharf casino; and the entity is not a subsidiary of, or otherwise controlled or significantly influenced by— the licensee or IR Holdco; or another relevant entity that is a trustee of the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust.
(sec.17-ssec.5) A notice under subsection (1) (c) or (2) (b) is subordinate legislation.
(sec.17-ssec.6) The Minister must give a copy of a notice under subsection (1) (c) or (2) (b) to the entity to which the declaration relates.
(a) an entity listed in the casino agreement, schedule 3 , column 1 or 2;
(b) an entity that becomes a party to the casino agreement under chapter 3 ;
(c) an entity declared by the Minister, by notice, to be a relevant entity.
(a) an entity that stops being a party to the casino agreement under chapter 3 ; or
(b) an entity declared by the Minister, by notice, not to be a relevant entity.
(a) the entity can influence the ownership, management or operations of another relevant entity in relation to the Queen’s Wharf complex or the Queen’s Wharf casino; or
(b) the entity is a subsidiary of, or is otherwise controlled or significantly influenced by— (i) the licensee or IR Holdco; or (ii) another relevant entity that is a trustee of the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust.
(i) the licensee or IR Holdco; or
(ii) another relevant entity that is a trustee of the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust.
(i) the licensee or IR Holdco; or
(ii) another relevant entity that is a trustee of the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust.
(a) the entity can not influence the ownership, management or operations of another relevant entity in relation to the Queen’s Wharf complex or the Queen’s Wharf casino; and
(b) the entity is not a subsidiary of, or otherwise controlled or significantly influenced by— (i) the licensee or IR Holdco; or (ii) another relevant entity that is a trustee of the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust.
(i) the licensee or IR Holdco; or
(ii) another relevant entity that is a trustee of the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust.
(i) the licensee or IR Holdco; or
(ii) another relevant entity that is a trustee of the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust.
sec.18
Meaning of relevant interest
sec.18 Meaning of relevant interest
A person’s relevant interest, in interests or convertible securities in a relevant entity, has the meaning given under the Corporations Act .
If a relevant entity is a body corporate, a person’s relevant interest in interests or convertible securities in the entity does not include a relevant interest in interests or convertible securities in a trust of which the entity is a trustee.
Under part 2 , division 1 , a person must comply with the approval requirements separately in relation to—
interests or convertible securities in a relevant entity that is a body corporate; and
interests or convertible securities in a relevant entity that is a trust of which the body corporate is a trustee.
For subsection (1) , interests in a relevant entity that is a trust are taken to be securities.
(sec.18-ssec.1) A person’s relevant interest, in interests or convertible securities in a relevant entity, has the meaning given under the Corporations Act . If a relevant entity is a body corporate, a person’s relevant interest in interests or convertible securities in the entity does not include a relevant interest in interests or convertible securities in a trust of which the entity is a trustee. Under part 2 , division 1 , a person must comply with the approval requirements separately in relation to— interests or convertible securities in a relevant entity that is a body corporate; and interests or convertible securities in a relevant entity that is a trust of which the body corporate is a trustee.
(sec.18-ssec.2) For subsection (1) , interests in a relevant entity that is a trust are taken to be securities.
1 If a relevant entity is a body corporate, a person’s relevant interest in interests or convertible securities in the entity does not include a relevant interest in interests or convertible securities in a trust of which the entity is a trustee.
2 Under part 2 , division 1 , a person must comply with the approval requirements separately in relation to— (a) interests or convertible securities in a relevant entity that is a body corporate; and (b) interests or convertible securities in a relevant entity that is a trust of which the body corporate is a trustee.
(a) interests or convertible securities in a relevant entity that is a body corporate; and
(b) interests or convertible securities in a relevant entity that is a trust of which the body corporate is a trustee.
(a) interests or convertible securities in a relevant entity that is a body corporate; and
(b) interests or convertible securities in a relevant entity that is a trust of which the body corporate is a trustee.
sec.19
Provision for trusts
sec.19 Provision for trusts
For this chapter, a trust is taken to be—
an entity; and
a managed investment scheme and a designated body under the Corporations Act .
For applying a provision of this Act in relation to a trust—
if the provision imposes an obligation in relation to the trust, the obligation is taken to be imposed in relation to each trustee of the trust acting in that capacity; and
if the provision refers to consent given by the trust, the consent must be given by each trustee of the trust acting in that capacity; and
if the provision requires a document to be given to or by the trust, the document must be given to or by a trustee of the trust.
(sec.19-ssec.1) For this chapter, a trust is taken to be— an entity; and a managed investment scheme and a designated body under the Corporations Act .
(sec.19-ssec.2) For applying a provision of this Act in relation to a trust— if the provision imposes an obligation in relation to the trust, the obligation is taken to be imposed in relation to each trustee of the trust acting in that capacity; and if the provision refers to consent given by the trust, the consent must be given by each trustee of the trust acting in that capacity; and if the provision requires a document to be given to or by the trust, the document must be given to or by a trustee of the trust.
(a) an entity; and
(b) a managed investment scheme and a designated body under the Corporations Act .
(a) if the provision imposes an obligation in relation to the trust, the obligation is taken to be imposed in relation to each trustee of the trust acting in that capacity; and
(b) if the provision refers to consent given by the trust, the consent must be given by each trustee of the trust acting in that capacity; and
(c) if the provision requires a document to be given to or by the trust, the document must be given to or by a trustee of the trust.
ch.4-pt.2
Requirements about voting power and relevant interests
Requirements about voting power and relevant interests
ch.4-pt.2-div.1
Approval requirements
Approval requirements
sec.20
Voting power
sec.20 Voting power
This section applies to a person’s voting power in any of the following relevant entities—
the licensee or IR Holdco;
any other relevant entity that is a trustee of the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust;
the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust.
The person’s voting power in the relevant entity must not, without the required approval, be—
more than 5% but not more than 10%; or
more than 10% but not more than 20%; or
more than 20%.
The required approval must be given by—
for subsection (2) (a) —the Minister; or
for subsection (2) (b) or (c) —the Governor in Council.
If a person has voting power in more than 1 relevant entity mentioned in subsection (1) , the person must comply with subsection (2) in relation to each of the entities.
(sec.20-ssec.1) This section applies to a person’s voting power in any of the following relevant entities— the licensee or IR Holdco; any other relevant entity that is a trustee of the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust; the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust.
(sec.20-ssec.2) The person’s voting power in the relevant entity must not, without the required approval, be— more than 5% but not more than 10%; or more than 10% but not more than 20%; or more than 20%.
(sec.20-ssec.3) The required approval must be given by— for subsection (2) (a) —the Minister; or for subsection (2) (b) or (c) —the Governor in Council.
(sec.20-ssec.4) If a person has voting power in more than 1 relevant entity mentioned in subsection (1) , the person must comply with subsection (2) in relation to each of the entities.
(a) the licensee or IR Holdco;
(b) any other relevant entity that is a trustee of the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust;
(c) the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust.
(a) more than 5% but not more than 10%; or
(b) more than 10% but not more than 20%; or
(c) more than 20%.
(a) for subsection (2) (a) —the Minister; or
(b) for subsection (2) (b) or (c) —the Governor in Council.
sec.21
Non-voting interests
sec.21 Non-voting interests
This section applies to non-voting interests in—
the licensee or IR Holdco; or
any other relevant entity that is a trustee of the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust; or
the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust.
The total number of non-voting interests in which a person has a relevant interest must not, without the required approval, be—
more than 10% but not more than 20% of the total number of interests of the same class on issue; or
more than 20% of the total number of interests of the same class on issue.
For subsection (2) (a) or (b) , the required approval must be given by the Governor in Council.
For this section, a person’s relevant interest in non-voting interests includes a relevant interest of an associate of the person in non-voting interests of the same class on issue, other than the non-voting interests in which the person has a relevant interest.
Person X has a relevant interest in 4% of a class of non-voting interests.
If person X’s associate has a relevant interest in a different 3% of the class of non-voting interests, person X’s relevant interest would be 7%.
However, if person X’s associate has a relevant interest in the same 4% of the class of non-voting interests as person X, then person X’s relevant interest would be 4%.
If a person has a relevant interest in non-voting interests in more than 1 relevant entity mentioned in subsection (1) , the person must comply with subsection (2) in relation to each of the entities.
(sec.21-ssec.1) This section applies to non-voting interests in— the licensee or IR Holdco; or any other relevant entity that is a trustee of the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust; or the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust.
(sec.21-ssec.2) The total number of non-voting interests in which a person has a relevant interest must not, without the required approval, be— more than 10% but not more than 20% of the total number of interests of the same class on issue; or more than 20% of the total number of interests of the same class on issue.
(sec.21-ssec.3) For subsection (2) (a) or (b) , the required approval must be given by the Governor in Council.
(sec.21-ssec.4) For this section, a person’s relevant interest in non-voting interests includes a relevant interest of an associate of the person in non-voting interests of the same class on issue, other than the non-voting interests in which the person has a relevant interest. Person X has a relevant interest in 4% of a class of non-voting interests. If person X’s associate has a relevant interest in a different 3% of the class of non-voting interests, person X’s relevant interest would be 7%. However, if person X’s associate has a relevant interest in the same 4% of the class of non-voting interests as person X, then person X’s relevant interest would be 4%.
(sec.21-ssec.5) If a person has a relevant interest in non-voting interests in more than 1 relevant entity mentioned in subsection (1) , the person must comply with subsection (2) in relation to each of the entities.
(a) the licensee or IR Holdco; or
(b) any other relevant entity that is a trustee of the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust; or
(c) the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust.
(a) more than 10% but not more than 20% of the total number of interests of the same class on issue; or
(b) more than 20% of the total number of interests of the same class on issue.
Person X has a relevant interest in 4% of a class of non-voting interests.
If person X’s associate has a relevant interest in a different 3% of the class of non-voting interests, person X’s relevant interest would be 7%.
However, if person X’s associate has a relevant interest in the same 4% of the class of non-voting interests as person X, then person X’s relevant interest would be 4%.
sec.22
Convertible securities
sec.22 Convertible securities
This section applies to convertible securities in—
the licensee or IR Holdco; or
any other relevant entity that is a trustee of the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust; or
the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust.
The total number of convertible securities in which a person has a relevant interest must not, without the required approval, be—
more than 10% but not more than 20% of the total number of convertible securities of the same class on issue; or
more than 20% of the total number of convertible securities of the same class on issue.
For subsection (2) (a) or (b) , the required approval must be given by the Governor in Council.
For this section, a person’s relevant interest in convertible securities includes a relevant interest of an associate of the person in convertible securities of the same class, other than the convertible securities in which the person has a relevant interest.
If a person has a relevant interest in convertible securities in more than 1 relevant entity mentioned in subsection (1) , the person must comply with subsection (2) in relation to each of the entities.
(sec.22-ssec.1) This section applies to convertible securities in— the licensee or IR Holdco; or any other relevant entity that is a trustee of the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust; or the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust.
(sec.22-ssec.2) The total number of convertible securities in which a person has a relevant interest must not, without the required approval, be— more than 10% but not more than 20% of the total number of convertible securities of the same class on issue; or more than 20% of the total number of convertible securities of the same class on issue.
(sec.22-ssec.3) For subsection (2) (a) or (b) , the required approval must be given by the Governor in Council.
(sec.22-ssec.4) For this section, a person’s relevant interest in convertible securities includes a relevant interest of an associate of the person in convertible securities of the same class, other than the convertible securities in which the person has a relevant interest.
(sec.22-ssec.5) If a person has a relevant interest in convertible securities in more than 1 relevant entity mentioned in subsection (1) , the person must comply with subsection (2) in relation to each of the entities.
(a) the licensee or IR Holdco; or
(b) any other relevant entity that is a trustee of the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust; or
(c) the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust.
(a) more than 10% but not more than 20% of the total number of convertible securities of the same class on issue; or
(b) more than 20% of the total number of convertible securities of the same class on issue.
sec.23
Voting power
sec.23 Voting power
This section applies to a person’s voting power in a relevant entity, other than a relevant entity mentioned in section 20 (1) .
The person’s voting power must not be more than 20% without the required approval.
For subsection (2) , the required approval must be given by the Governor in Council.
If a person has voting power in more than 1 relevant entity mentioned in subsection (1) , the person must comply with subsection (2) in relation to each of the entities.
(sec.23-ssec.1) This section applies to a person’s voting power in a relevant entity, other than a relevant entity mentioned in section 20 (1) .
(sec.23-ssec.2) The person’s voting power must not be more than 20% without the required approval.
(sec.23-ssec.3) For subsection (2) , the required approval must be given by the Governor in Council.
(sec.23-ssec.4) If a person has voting power in more than 1 relevant entity mentioned in subsection (1) , the person must comply with subsection (2) in relation to each of the entities.
sec.24
Requirement about suitability
sec.24 Requirement about suitability
The Governor in Council or the Minister may give a person approval under this division only if satisfied, on the basis of an investigation under the Control Act , section 20 or 30 , that the person is a suitable person to be associated or connected with the ownership, management or operations of the Queen’s Wharf complex or the Queen’s Wharf casino.
sec.25
Approval may be conditional
sec.25 Approval may be conditional
The Governor in Council or the Minister may give a person approval under this division subject to conditions.
If approval is given subject to conditions, the person must comply with the conditions.
A direction may be given under part 3 , division 1 enforcing compliance with the conditions of an approval.
(sec.25-ssec.1) The Governor in Council or the Minister may give a person approval under this division subject to conditions.
(sec.25-ssec.2) If approval is given subject to conditions, the person must comply with the conditions. A direction may be given under part 3 , division 1 enforcing compliance with the conditions of an approval.
sec.26
Effect of direction under pt 3 , div 2
sec.26 Effect of direction under pt 3 , div 2
This section applies if—
the Governor in Council or the Minister has given a person approval under this division; and
the Governor in Council gives the person a direction under part 3 , division 2 .
The approval is revoked when the direction is given to the person.
(sec.26-ssec.1) This section applies if— the Governor in Council or the Minister has given a person approval under this division; and the Governor in Council gives the person a direction under part 3 , division 2 .
(sec.26-ssec.2) The approval is revoked when the direction is given to the person.
(a) the Governor in Council or the Minister has given a person approval under this division; and
(b) the Governor in Council gives the person a direction under part 3 , division 2 .
ch.4-pt.2-div.2
Notice requirements
Notice requirements
sec.27
Notice requirements relating to the licensee and IR Holdco
sec.27 Notice requirements relating to the licensee and IR Holdco
A regulation may require a person to give a relevant entity mentioned in subsection (2) , or the Minister, stated information known to the person about any matter related to interests, or convertible securities, in the relevant entity.
For subsection (1) , the relevant entities are—
the licensee or IR Holdco; or
any other relevant entity that is a trustee of the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust; or
the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust.
The regulation may require the information to be given within a stated period and in a stated way.
(sec.27-ssec.1) A regulation may require a person to give a relevant entity mentioned in subsection (2) , or the Minister, stated information known to the person about any matter related to interests, or convertible securities, in the relevant entity.
(sec.27-ssec.2) For subsection (1) , the relevant entities are— the licensee or IR Holdco; or any other relevant entity that is a trustee of the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust; or the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust.
(sec.27-ssec.3) The regulation may require the information to be given within a stated period and in a stated way.
(a) the licensee or IR Holdco; or
(b) any other relevant entity that is a trustee of the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust; or
(c) the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust.
sec.28
Notice requirements relating to other relevant entities
sec.28 Notice requirements relating to other relevant entities
If a person’s voting power in a relevant entity other than a relevant entity mentioned in section 27 (2) is more than 10% but not more than 20%, the person must give the relevant entity written notice, in the approved form, within 5 business days after the person’s voting power first exceeds 10%.
Maximum penalty—40 penalty units.
If the relevant entity is aware the person’s voting power is more than 10%, the relevant entity must, within the period mentioned in subsection (3) , give the Minister written notice of that fact in the approved form.
Maximum penalty—40 penalty units.
For subsection (2) , the period is 10 business days after the earlier of the following events—
the relevant entity receives notice of the person’s voting power under subsection (1) ;
the relevant entity otherwise becomes aware the person’s voting power is more than 10%.
(sec.28-ssec.1) If a person’s voting power in a relevant entity other than a relevant entity mentioned in section 27 (2) is more than 10% but not more than 20%, the person must give the relevant entity written notice, in the approved form, within 5 business days after the person’s voting power first exceeds 10%. Maximum penalty—40 penalty units.
(sec.28-ssec.2) If the relevant entity is aware the person’s voting power is more than 10%, the relevant entity must, within the period mentioned in subsection (3) , give the Minister written notice of that fact in the approved form. Maximum penalty—40 penalty units.
(sec.28-ssec.3) For subsection (2) , the period is 10 business days after the earlier of the following events— the relevant entity receives notice of the person’s voting power under subsection (1) ; the relevant entity otherwise becomes aware the person’s voting power is more than 10%.
(a) the relevant entity receives notice of the person’s voting power under subsection (1) ;
(b) the relevant entity otherwise becomes aware the person’s voting power is more than 10%.
ch.4-pt.2-div.3
General
General
sec.29
Exemptions
sec.29 Exemptions
A regulation may exempt a person, or a class of persons, in stated circumstances from the requirement to comply with a provision of division 1 , subdivision 1 or 2 or division 2 .
ch.4-pt.3
Disposal of interests and convertible securities
Disposal of interests and convertible securities
ch.4-pt.3-div.1
Noncompliance with approval requirements
Noncompliance with approval requirements
sec.30
Show cause notice
sec.30 Show cause notice
This section applies if the Minister suspects on reasonable grounds a person has not complied with either of the following (an approval requirement )—
a requirement under part 2 , division 1 to obtain an approval;
a condition of an approval given under part 2 , division 1 .
The Minister may give the person a written notice (a show cause notice )—
stating the action (the proposed action ) the Minister proposes to recommend the person be directed to take by the Governor in Council under this division; and
stating the grounds for the proposed action; and
outlining the facts and circumstances forming the basis for the grounds; and
inviting the person to show within a stated period (the show cause period ) why the proposed action should not be taken.
The proposed action must be stated action, or all action necessary, to remedy the noncompliance.
The show cause period must be a period ending at least 21 days after the day the show cause notice is given to the person.
The Minister must give the following entities a copy of the show cause notice—
the relevant entity to which the approval requirement relates;
if the relevant entity is not a consortium party—the consortium party that is the relevant entity’s ultimate parent under the casino agreement.
(sec.30-ssec.1) This section applies if the Minister suspects on reasonable grounds a person has not complied with either of the following (an approval requirement )— a requirement under part 2 , division 1 to obtain an approval; a condition of an approval given under part 2 , division 1 .
(sec.30-ssec.2) The Minister may give the person a written notice (a show cause notice )— stating the action (the proposed action ) the Minister proposes to recommend the person be directed to take by the Governor in Council under this division; and stating the grounds for the proposed action; and outlining the facts and circumstances forming the basis for the grounds; and inviting the person to show within a stated period (the show cause period ) why the proposed action should not be taken.
(sec.30-ssec.3) The proposed action must be stated action, or all action necessary, to remedy the noncompliance.
(sec.30-ssec.4) The show cause period must be a period ending at least 21 days after the day the show cause notice is given to the person.
(sec.30-ssec.5) The Minister must give the following entities a copy of the show cause notice— the relevant entity to which the approval requirement relates; if the relevant entity is not a consortium party—the consortium party that is the relevant entity’s ultimate parent under the casino agreement.
(a) a requirement under part 2 , division 1 to obtain an approval;
(b) a condition of an approval given under part 2 , division 1 .
(a) stating the action (the proposed action ) the Minister proposes to recommend the person be directed to take by the Governor in Council under this division; and
(b) stating the grounds for the proposed action; and
(c) outlining the facts and circumstances forming the basis for the grounds; and
(d) inviting the person to show within a stated period (the show cause period ) why the proposed action should not be taken.
(a) the relevant entity to which the approval requirement relates;
(b) if the relevant entity is not a consortium party—the consortium party that is the relevant entity’s ultimate parent under the casino agreement.
sec.31
Consideration of representations
sec.31 Consideration of representations
The Minister must consider all written representations (the accepted representations) made during the show cause period by the person.
sec.32
Decision to investigate person’s suitability
sec.32 Decision to investigate person’s suitability
This section applies if, after considering the accepted representations for a show cause notice, the Minister believes—
the person has not complied with an approval requirement mentioned in section 30 (1) (a) ; and
it is appropriate to undertake an investigation of the person under the Control Act , section 30 .
The Minister may give the person a written notice requiring the person to satisfy the Governor in Council, under the Control Act , section 30 , that the person is a suitable person to be associated or connected with the ownership, management or operations of the Queen’s Wharf complex or the Queen’s Wharf casino.
If the person satisfies the Governor in Council under the Control Act , section 30 that the person is a suitable person—
the person is taken to have obtained the required approval for the purposes of the approval requirement that was the subject of the show cause notice; and
the Minister must give the person a written notice stating—
the Governor in Council is satisfied under the Control Act , section 30 that the person is a suitable person; and
the person is taken to have obtained the required approval for the purposes of the approval requirement that was the subject of the show cause notice; and
no further action will be taken in relation to the show cause notice.
(sec.32-ssec.1) This section applies if, after considering the accepted representations for a show cause notice, the Minister believes— the person has not complied with an approval requirement mentioned in section 30 (1) (a) ; and it is appropriate to undertake an investigation of the person under the Control Act , section 30 .
(sec.32-ssec.2) The Minister may give the person a written notice requiring the person to satisfy the Governor in Council, under the Control Act , section 30 , that the person is a suitable person to be associated or connected with the ownership, management or operations of the Queen’s Wharf complex or the Queen’s Wharf casino.
(sec.32-ssec.3) If the person satisfies the Governor in Council under the Control Act , section 30 that the person is a suitable person— the person is taken to have obtained the required approval for the purposes of the approval requirement that was the subject of the show cause notice; and the Minister must give the person a written notice stating— the Governor in Council is satisfied under the Control Act , section 30 that the person is a suitable person; and the person is taken to have obtained the required approval for the purposes of the approval requirement that was the subject of the show cause notice; and no further action will be taken in relation to the show cause notice.
(a) the person has not complied with an approval requirement mentioned in section 30 (1) (a) ; and
(b) it is appropriate to undertake an investigation of the person under the Control Act , section 30 .
(a) the person is taken to have obtained the required approval for the purposes of the approval requirement that was the subject of the show cause notice; and
(b) the Minister must give the person a written notice stating— (i) the Governor in Council is satisfied under the Control Act , section 30 that the person is a suitable person; and (ii) the person is taken to have obtained the required approval for the purposes of the approval requirement that was the subject of the show cause notice; and (iii) no further action will be taken in relation to the show cause notice.
(i) the Governor in Council is satisfied under the Control Act , section 30 that the person is a suitable person; and
(ii) the person is taken to have obtained the required approval for the purposes of the approval requirement that was the subject of the show cause notice; and
(iii) no further action will be taken in relation to the show cause notice.
(i) the Governor in Council is satisfied under the Control Act , section 30 that the person is a suitable person; and
(ii) the person is taken to have obtained the required approval for the purposes of the approval requirement that was the subject of the show cause notice; and
(iii) no further action will be taken in relation to the show cause notice.
sec.33
Recommendation of Minister
sec.33 Recommendation of Minister
This section applies if, after considering the accepted representations for a show cause notice—
the Minister believes the person has not complied with an approval requirement; and
either—
the person has not been given a notice under section 32 (2) ; or
if the person was given a notice under section 32 (2) —the Governor in Council is not satisfied under the Control Act , section 30 , that the person is a suitable person to be associated or connected with the ownership, management or operations of the Queen’s Wharf complex or the Queen’s Wharf casino.
Also, this section applies if the Minister believes—
a person has not complied with an approval requirement; and
the integrity of the operation of the Queen’s Wharf casino may be jeopardised in a material way or the public interest may be affected in an adverse or material way; and
it is appropriate to recommend that a direction be given to the person under section 34 without giving the person a show cause notice.
The Minister may recommend to the Governor in Council that a direction be given to the person under section 34 .
(sec.33-ssec.1) This section applies if, after considering the accepted representations for a show cause notice— the Minister believes the person has not complied with an approval requirement; and either— the person has not been given a notice under section 32 (2) ; or if the person was given a notice under section 32 (2) —the Governor in Council is not satisfied under the Control Act , section 30 , that the person is a suitable person to be associated or connected with the ownership, management or operations of the Queen’s Wharf complex or the Queen’s Wharf casino.
(sec.33-ssec.2) Also, this section applies if the Minister believes— a person has not complied with an approval requirement; and the integrity of the operation of the Queen’s Wharf casino may be jeopardised in a material way or the public interest may be affected in an adverse or material way; and it is appropriate to recommend that a direction be given to the person under section 34 without giving the person a show cause notice.
(sec.33-ssec.3) The Minister may recommend to the Governor in Council that a direction be given to the person under section 34 .
(a) the Minister believes the person has not complied with an approval requirement; and
(b) either— (i) the person has not been given a notice under section 32 (2) ; or (ii) if the person was given a notice under section 32 (2) —the Governor in Council is not satisfied under the Control Act , section 30 , that the person is a suitable person to be associated or connected with the ownership, management or operations of the Queen’s Wharf complex or the Queen’s Wharf casino.
(i) the person has not been given a notice under section 32 (2) ; or
(ii) if the person was given a notice under section 32 (2) —the Governor in Council is not satisfied under the Control Act , section 30 , that the person is a suitable person to be associated or connected with the ownership, management or operations of the Queen’s Wharf complex or the Queen’s Wharf casino.
(i) the person has not been given a notice under section 32 (2) ; or
(ii) if the person was given a notice under section 32 (2) —the Governor in Council is not satisfied under the Control Act , section 30 , that the person is a suitable person to be associated or connected with the ownership, management or operations of the Queen’s Wharf complex or the Queen’s Wharf casino.
(a) a person has not complied with an approval requirement; and
(b) the integrity of the operation of the Queen’s Wharf casino may be jeopardised in a material way or the public interest may be affected in an adverse or material way; and
(c) it is appropriate to recommend that a direction be given to the person under section 34 without giving the person a show cause notice.
sec.34
Direction to take action to remedy noncompliance
sec.34 Direction to take action to remedy noncompliance
The Governor in Council may, on the Minister’s recommendation, direct the person to take stated action, or all necessary action, to remedy the noncompliance within the required period.
For subsection (1) , the required period is as soon as reasonably practicable and no later than—
the day that is 2 months after the day the direction is given to the person; or
if the Governor in Council agrees in writing to a later day—the later day.
The direction must be given by written notice stating—
details of the grounds for the making of the Minister’s recommendation; and
that the person is directed to take stated action, or all action necessary, as applicable, to remedy the noncompliance; and
the day mentioned in subsection (2) (a) by which the person must comply with the direction, unless the Governor in Council agrees in writing to a later day.
The person must comply with the direction.
Maximum penalty—200 penalty units.
(sec.34-ssec.1) The Governor in Council may, on the Minister’s recommendation, direct the person to take stated action, or all necessary action, to remedy the noncompliance within the required period.
(sec.34-ssec.2) For subsection (1) , the required period is as soon as reasonably practicable and no later than— the day that is 2 months after the day the direction is given to the person; or if the Governor in Council agrees in writing to a later day—the later day.
(sec.34-ssec.3) The direction must be given by written notice stating— details of the grounds for the making of the Minister’s recommendation; and that the person is directed to take stated action, or all action necessary, as applicable, to remedy the noncompliance; and the day mentioned in subsection (2) (a) by which the person must comply with the direction, unless the Governor in Council agrees in writing to a later day.
(sec.34-ssec.4) The person must comply with the direction. Maximum penalty—200 penalty units.
(a) the day that is 2 months after the day the direction is given to the person; or
(b) if the Governor in Council agrees in writing to a later day—the later day.
(a) details of the grounds for the making of the Minister’s recommendation; and
(b) that the person is directed to take stated action, or all action necessary, as applicable, to remedy the noncompliance; and
(c) the day mentioned in subsection (2) (a) by which the person must comply with the direction, unless the Governor in Council agrees in writing to a later day.
sec.35
Relationship with div 2
sec.35 Relationship with div 2
This division does not limit division 2 .
ch.4-pt.3-div.2
Other disposal provisions
Other disposal provisions
sec.36
Recommendation of Minister
sec.36 Recommendation of Minister
This section applies if the Minister believes—
on the basis of an investigation under the Control Act , section 30 , a person who holds interests or convertible securities in a relevant entity is not a suitable person to be associated or connected with the ownership, management or operations of the Queen’s Wharf complex or the Queen’s Wharf casino; or
a person has contravened section 14 (3) ; or
clause 5.2(a) or 5.2(b)(ii)(D) of the casino agreement has not been complied with in relation to, or in any way connected with, interests or convertible securities in a relevant entity held by a person.
The Minister may recommend to the Governor in Council that a direction be given to the person under section 37 .
(sec.36-ssec.1) This section applies if the Minister believes— on the basis of an investigation under the Control Act , section 30 , a person who holds interests or convertible securities in a relevant entity is not a suitable person to be associated or connected with the ownership, management or operations of the Queen’s Wharf complex or the Queen’s Wharf casino; or a person has contravened section 14 (3) ; or clause 5.2(a) or 5.2(b)(ii)(D) of the casino agreement has not been complied with in relation to, or in any way connected with, interests or convertible securities in a relevant entity held by a person.
(sec.36-ssec.2) The Minister may recommend to the Governor in Council that a direction be given to the person under section 37 .
(a) on the basis of an investigation under the Control Act , section 30 , a person who holds interests or convertible securities in a relevant entity is not a suitable person to be associated or connected with the ownership, management or operations of the Queen’s Wharf complex or the Queen’s Wharf casino; or
(b) a person has contravened section 14 (3) ; or
(c) clause 5.2(a) or 5.2(b)(ii)(D) of the casino agreement has not been complied with in relation to, or in any way connected with, interests or convertible securities in a relevant entity held by a person.
sec.37
Direction to dispose of interests and convertible securities
sec.37 Direction to dispose of interests and convertible securities
The Governor in Council may, on the Minister’s recommendation, direct the person to dispose, within the required period, of all of the person’s interests and convertible securities in each relevant entity.
For subsection (1) , the required period is as soon as reasonably practicable and no later than—
the day that is 2 months after the day the direction is given to the person; or
if the Governor in Council agrees in writing to a later day—the later day.
For subsection (1) , the Governor in Council may direct the person to take stated action, or all action necessary, to dispose of the interests and convertible securities.
The direction must be given by written notice stating—
details of the grounds for the Minister’s recommendation; and
that the person is directed to dispose of all of the person’s interests and convertible securities in each relevant entity; and
whether the person is directed to take stated action or all action necessary to dispose of the interests and convertible securities; and
the day mentioned in subsection (2) (a) by which the person must comply with the direction, unless the Governor in Council agrees in writing to a later day.
The person must comply with the direction.
Maximum penalty—200 penalty units.
(sec.37-ssec.1) The Governor in Council may, on the Minister’s recommendation, direct the person to dispose, within the required period, of all of the person’s interests and convertible securities in each relevant entity.
(sec.37-ssec.2) For subsection (1) , the required period is as soon as reasonably practicable and no later than— the day that is 2 months after the day the direction is given to the person; or if the Governor in Council agrees in writing to a later day—the later day.
(sec.37-ssec.3) For subsection (1) , the Governor in Council may direct the person to take stated action, or all action necessary, to dispose of the interests and convertible securities.
(sec.37-ssec.4) The direction must be given by written notice stating— details of the grounds for the Minister’s recommendation; and that the person is directed to dispose of all of the person’s interests and convertible securities in each relevant entity; and whether the person is directed to take stated action or all action necessary to dispose of the interests and convertible securities; and the day mentioned in subsection (2) (a) by which the person must comply with the direction, unless the Governor in Council agrees in writing to a later day.
(sec.37-ssec.5) The person must comply with the direction. Maximum penalty—200 penalty units.
(a) the day that is 2 months after the day the direction is given to the person; or
(b) if the Governor in Council agrees in writing to a later day—the later day.
(a) details of the grounds for the Minister’s recommendation; and
(b) that the person is directed to dispose of all of the person’s interests and convertible securities in each relevant entity; and
(c) whether the person is directed to take stated action or all action necessary to dispose of the interests and convertible securities; and
(d) the day mentioned in subsection (2) (a) by which the person must comply with the direction, unless the Governor in Council agrees in writing to a later day.
ch.4-pt.4
Information about ownership of interests
Information about ownership of interests
sec.38
Application of part
sec.38 Application of part
This part applies to a relevant entity if the Corporations Act , part 6C .2 does not apply in relation to the entity.
sec.39
Disclosure notice
sec.39 Disclosure notice
The relevant entity may, by written notice (a disclosure notice ), direct a person mentioned in subsection (2) to make the disclosure required by section 40 .
For subsection (1) , the persons are—
a person who holds interests in the relevant entity; or
a person named in a previous disclosure under section 40 as holding, or having given instructions about, interests in the relevant entity.
(sec.39-ssec.1) The relevant entity may, by written notice (a disclosure notice ), direct a person mentioned in subsection (2) to make the disclosure required by section 40 .
(sec.39-ssec.2) For subsection (1) , the persons are— a person who holds interests in the relevant entity; or a person named in a previous disclosure under section 40 as holding, or having given instructions about, interests in the relevant entity.
(a) a person who holds interests in the relevant entity; or
(b) a person named in a previous disclosure under section 40 as holding, or having given instructions about, interests in the relevant entity.
sec.40
Requirement to comply with disclosure notice
sec.40 Requirement to comply with disclosure notice
A person given a disclosure notice (the recipient) must, within 2 business days after receiving the notice, give the relevant entity a written notice disclosing—
full details of—
the recipient’s relevant interest in interests in the relevant entity; and
the circumstances giving rise to the relevant interest; and
the name and address of each other person who has a relevant interest in any of the interests and full details of—
the nature and extent of the relevant interest; and
the circumstances giving rise to the relevant interest; and
the name and address of each other person who has given the recipient instructions about—
the acquisition or disposal of the interests; or
the exercise of any voting or other rights attached to the interests; or
any other matter relating to the interests; and
full details of any instructions mentioned in paragraph (c) , including the date on which they were given.
Maximum penalty—40 penalty units.
However, a matter mentioned in subsection (1) (b) , (c) or (d) need only be disclosed to the extent to which it is known to the recipient.
Subsection (2) places an evidential burden on the defendant to show the extent to which the matter was not known to the defendant.
The recipient is not required to comply with subsection (1) if the recipient proves that the giving of the disclosure notice is vexatious.
(sec.40-ssec.1) A person given a disclosure notice (the recipient) must, within 2 business days after receiving the notice, give the relevant entity a written notice disclosing— full details of— the recipient’s relevant interest in interests in the relevant entity; and the circumstances giving rise to the relevant interest; and the name and address of each other person who has a relevant interest in any of the interests and full details of— the nature and extent of the relevant interest; and the circumstances giving rise to the relevant interest; and the name and address of each other person who has given the recipient instructions about— the acquisition or disposal of the interests; or the exercise of any voting or other rights attached to the interests; or any other matter relating to the interests; and full details of any instructions mentioned in paragraph (c) , including the date on which they were given. Maximum penalty—40 penalty units.
(sec.40-ssec.2) However, a matter mentioned in subsection (1) (b) , (c) or (d) need only be disclosed to the extent to which it is known to the recipient.
(sec.40-ssec.3) Subsection (2) places an evidential burden on the defendant to show the extent to which the matter was not known to the defendant.
(sec.40-ssec.4) The recipient is not required to comply with subsection (1) if the recipient proves that the giving of the disclosure notice is vexatious.
(a) full details of— (i) the recipient’s relevant interest in interests in the relevant entity; and (ii) the circumstances giving rise to the relevant interest; and
(i) the recipient’s relevant interest in interests in the relevant entity; and
(ii) the circumstances giving rise to the relevant interest; and
(b) the name and address of each other person who has a relevant interest in any of the interests and full details of— (i) the nature and extent of the relevant interest; and (ii) the circumstances giving rise to the relevant interest; and
(i) the nature and extent of the relevant interest; and
(ii) the circumstances giving rise to the relevant interest; and
(c) the name and address of each other person who has given the recipient instructions about— (i) the acquisition or disposal of the interests; or (ii) the exercise of any voting or other rights attached to the interests; or (iii) any other matter relating to the interests; and
(i) the acquisition or disposal of the interests; or
(ii) the exercise of any voting or other rights attached to the interests; or
(iii) any other matter relating to the interests; and
(d) full details of any instructions mentioned in paragraph (c) , including the date on which they were given.
(i) the recipient’s relevant interest in interests in the relevant entity; and
(ii) the circumstances giving rise to the relevant interest; and
(i) the nature and extent of the relevant interest; and
(ii) the circumstances giving rise to the relevant interest; and
(i) the acquisition or disposal of the interests; or
(ii) the exercise of any voting or other rights attached to the interests; or
(iii) any other matter relating to the interests; and
ch.5-pt.1
Application of Land Act
Application of Land Act
ch.5-pt.1-div.1
Preliminary
Preliminary
sec.41
Purpose of part
sec.41 Purpose of part
The purpose of this part is to provide for the following to facilitate commitments made by the State in relation to land within the Queen’s Wharf area—
a streamlined process for particular land to be granted in fee simple or leased to the State under the Land Act ;
changes to the way the Land Act operates in relation to the land leased to the State.
s 41 amd 2018 No. 22 s 15
(a) a streamlined process for particular land to be granted in fee simple or leased to the State under the Land Act ;
(b) changes to the way the Land Act operates in relation to the land leased to the State.
sec.42
Interpretation for part
sec.42 Interpretation for part
In this part—
chief executive (land) means the chief executive of the department in which the Land Act is administered.
declaration see section 43 (1) .
freehold declaration see section 43 (1) (a) .
Land Act Minister means the Minister responsible for administering the Land Act .
leasehold declaration see section 43 (1) (b) .
ongoing interest see section 43 (6) .
Queen’s Wharf area means—
the Queen’s Wharf priority development area; or
PDA-associated land under the Economic Development Act 2012 , schedule 1 for the Queen’s Wharf priority development area.
s 42 def Queen’s Wharf area ins 2018 No. 22 s 16
Queen’s Wharf deed see section 44 (4) or 57D (7) .
s 42 def Queen’s Wharf deed amd 2023 No. 30 s 116 (1)
Queen’s Wharf headlease see section 45 (5) .
Queen’s Wharf headlease land see section 45 (6) .
Queen’s Wharf licence see section 52 .
Queen’s Wharf tenure means a Queen’s Wharf deed issued under section 44 (4) or Queen’s Wharf headlease.
s 42 def Queen’s Wharf tenure amd 2023 No. 30 s 116 (2)
Words and expressions used in this part and the Land Act have the same meaning, to the extent the context permits.
Without limiting subsection (2) , in this part—
sublease includes a concurrent sublease.
(sec.42-ssec.1) In this part— chief executive (land) means the chief executive of the department in which the Land Act is administered. declaration see section 43 (1) . freehold declaration see section 43 (1) (a) . Land Act Minister means the Minister responsible for administering the Land Act . leasehold declaration see section 43 (1) (b) . ongoing interest see section 43 (6) . Queen’s Wharf area means— the Queen’s Wharf priority development area; or PDA-associated land under the Economic Development Act 2012 , schedule 1 for the Queen’s Wharf priority development area. s 42 def Queen’s Wharf area ins 2018 No. 22 s 16 Queen’s Wharf deed see section 44 (4) or 57D (7) . s 42 def Queen’s Wharf deed amd 2023 No. 30 s 116 (1) Queen’s Wharf headlease see section 45 (5) . Queen’s Wharf headlease land see section 45 (6) . Queen’s Wharf licence see section 52 . Queen’s Wharf tenure means a Queen’s Wharf deed issued under section 44 (4) or Queen’s Wharf headlease. s 42 def Queen’s Wharf tenure amd 2023 No. 30 s 116 (2)
(sec.42-ssec.2) Words and expressions used in this part and the Land Act have the same meaning, to the extent the context permits.
(sec.42-ssec.3) Without limiting subsection (2) , in this part— sublease includes a concurrent sublease.
(a) the Queen’s Wharf priority development area; or
(b) PDA-associated land under the Economic Development Act 2012 , schedule 1 for the Queen’s Wharf priority development area.
ch.5-pt.1-div.2
Granting and leasing land to the State
Granting and leasing land to the State
sec.43
Declaration
sec.43 Declaration
The Minister may, by instrument (a declaration ) declare land in the Queen’s Wharf area is to be either—
granted in fee simple to the State under the Land Act (a freehold declaration ); or
leased to the State under the Land Act (a leasehold declaration ).
Land may be included in a declaration only if it is—
unallocated State land; or
a road; or
trust land; or
land subject to a lease under the Land Act held by the State as lessee.
A declaration must—
identify the land the subject of the declaration; and
state the purpose for declaring the land; and
for a leasehold declaration—state either—
the land is to be leased to the State for a stated term of years; or
the land is to be leased to the State in perpetuity.
Land on the seaward side of a tidal boundary or right line tidal boundary must not be included in—
a freehold declaration, unless the land has been reclaimed under the authority of an Act; or
a leasehold declaration, unless the Minister is satisfied the matters mentioned in the Land Act , section 15 (4) have been sufficiently addressed for the land.
The Minister may state a purpose for declaring the land even if the purpose is ultimately for conferring rights and interests on a person other than the State.
If the Minister considers it necessary and reasonable for an interest in land included in a declaration to continue after the land has been granted or leased under this division, the declaration may identify the interest (an ongoing interest ).
However, a declaration must not identify an ongoing interest if the Minister considers the continuation of the interest is inconsistent with the purpose for declaring the land as stated in the declaration.
A declaration is subordinate legislation.
s 43 amd 2018 No. 22 s 17
(sec.43-ssec.1) The Minister may, by instrument (a declaration ) declare land in the Queen’s Wharf area is to be either— granted in fee simple to the State under the Land Act (a freehold declaration ); or leased to the State under the Land Act (a leasehold declaration ).
(sec.43-ssec.2) Land may be included in a declaration only if it is— unallocated State land; or a road; or trust land; or land subject to a lease under the Land Act held by the State as lessee.
(sec.43-ssec.3) A declaration must— identify the land the subject of the declaration; and state the purpose for declaring the land; and for a leasehold declaration—state either— the land is to be leased to the State for a stated term of years; or the land is to be leased to the State in perpetuity.
(sec.43-ssec.4) Land on the seaward side of a tidal boundary or right line tidal boundary must not be included in— a freehold declaration, unless the land has been reclaimed under the authority of an Act; or a leasehold declaration, unless the Minister is satisfied the matters mentioned in the Land Act , section 15 (4) have been sufficiently addressed for the land.
(sec.43-ssec.5) The Minister may state a purpose for declaring the land even if the purpose is ultimately for conferring rights and interests on a person other than the State.
(sec.43-ssec.6) If the Minister considers it necessary and reasonable for an interest in land included in a declaration to continue after the land has been granted or leased under this division, the declaration may identify the interest (an ongoing interest ).
(sec.43-ssec.7) However, a declaration must not identify an ongoing interest if the Minister considers the continuation of the interest is inconsistent with the purpose for declaring the land as stated in the declaration.
(sec.43-ssec.8) A declaration is subordinate legislation.
(a) granted in fee simple to the State under the Land Act (a freehold declaration ); or
(b) leased to the State under the Land Act (a leasehold declaration ).
(a) unallocated State land; or
(b) a road; or
(c) trust land; or
(d) land subject to a lease under the Land Act held by the State as lessee.
(a) identify the land the subject of the declaration; and
(b) state the purpose for declaring the land; and
(c) for a leasehold declaration—state either— (i) the land is to be leased to the State for a stated term of years; or (ii) the land is to be leased to the State in perpetuity.
(i) the land is to be leased to the State for a stated term of years; or
(ii) the land is to be leased to the State in perpetuity.
(i) the land is to be leased to the State for a stated term of years; or
(ii) the land is to be leased to the State in perpetuity.
(a) a freehold declaration, unless the land has been reclaimed under the authority of an Act; or
(b) a leasehold declaration, unless the Minister is satisfied the matters mentioned in the Land Act , section 15 (4) have been sufficiently addressed for the land.
sec.44
Grant in fee simple to State
sec.44 Grant in fee simple to State
This section applies to a freehold declaration.
The Governor in Council must, under the Land Act , grant the land identified in the declaration in fee simple to the State.
If the land was not unallocated State land when the declaration was made, the land is taken to be unallocated State land for giving effect to subsection (2) .
A deed of grant issued by the Governor in Council in applying this section is a Queen’s Wharf deed .
This section does not affect the operation of the Land Act , section 21 .
Under the Land Act , section 21 , each deed of grant is subject to the reservations and conditions authorised or required by the Land Act or another Act.
(sec.44-ssec.1) This section applies to a freehold declaration.
(sec.44-ssec.2) The Governor in Council must, under the Land Act , grant the land identified in the declaration in fee simple to the State.
(sec.44-ssec.3) If the land was not unallocated State land when the declaration was made, the land is taken to be unallocated State land for giving effect to subsection (2) .
(sec.44-ssec.4) A deed of grant issued by the Governor in Council in applying this section is a Queen’s Wharf deed .
(sec.44-ssec.5) This section does not affect the operation of the Land Act , section 21 . Under the Land Act , section 21 , each deed of grant is subject to the reservations and conditions authorised or required by the Land Act or another Act.
sec.45
Lease issued to State
sec.45 Lease issued to State
This section applies to a leasehold declaration.
The Land Act Minister must, under the Land Act , lease the land identified in the declaration to the State.
If the land was not unallocated State land when the declaration was made, the land is taken to be unallocated State land for giving effect to subsection (2) .
The lease must be—
for the term, or in perpetuity, as stated in the declaration; and
for a rent of $1 a year, if demanded; and
for a purpose that is consistent with the purpose stated in the declaration.
A lease issued by the Land Act Minister in applying this section is a Queen’s Wharf headlease .
Land subject to a Queen’s Wharf headlease is Queen’s Wharf headlease land .
This section does not affect the operation of the Land Act , section 21 .
Under the Land Act , section 21 , each lease is subject to the reservations and conditions authorised or required by the Land Act or another Act.
(sec.45-ssec.1) This section applies to a leasehold declaration.
(sec.45-ssec.2) The Land Act Minister must, under the Land Act , lease the land identified in the declaration to the State.
(sec.45-ssec.3) If the land was not unallocated State land when the declaration was made, the land is taken to be unallocated State land for giving effect to subsection (2) .
(sec.45-ssec.4) The lease must be— for the term, or in perpetuity, as stated in the declaration; and for a rent of $1 a year, if demanded; and for a purpose that is consistent with the purpose stated in the declaration.
(sec.45-ssec.5) A lease issued by the Land Act Minister in applying this section is a Queen’s Wharf headlease .
(sec.45-ssec.6) Land subject to a Queen’s Wharf headlease is Queen’s Wharf headlease land .
(sec.45-ssec.7) This section does not affect the operation of the Land Act , section 21 . Under the Land Act , section 21 , each lease is subject to the reservations and conditions authorised or required by the Land Act or another Act.
(a) for the term, or in perpetuity, as stated in the declaration; and
(b) for a rent of $1 a year, if demanded; and
(c) for a purpose that is consistent with the purpose stated in the declaration.
sec.46
Effect of registration
sec.46 Effect of registration
A Queen’s Wharf tenure takes effect on registration of the tenure.
If, immediately before registration of the tenure, the land the subject of the tenure was a road, the road is permanently closed on the registration.
If, immediately before registration of the tenure, the land the subject of the tenure was a reserve, the dedication or the reservation and setting apart is revoked on the registration.
If, immediately before registration of the tenure, the land the subject of the tenure was contained in a deed of grant in trust, the deed of grant in trust is cancelled on the registration.
If, immediately before registration of the tenure, the land the subject of the tenure was leased under the Land Act to the State, the lease ends on the registration.
If, immediately before registration of the tenure, the land the subject of the tenure was subject to another interest, other than an ongoing interest, the interest ends on the registration.
The registration of the tenure must be subject to any ongoing interest identified in the declaration for the tenure.
The chief executive (land) must record the cancellation of an interest under this section in the appropriate register.
This section applies despite any requirement that would otherwise apply under the Land Act to the Land Act Minister or chief executive (land) in relation to cancelling, or registering the cancellation of, an interest.
In this section—
cancel , an interest, includes permanently close a road, revoke a dedication or reservation and setting apart, and end a lease or other interest.
registration —
of a Queen’s Wharf deed—means registration in the freehold land register; or
of a Queen’s Wharf headlease—means registration in the leasehold land register kept by the chief executive (land) under the Land Act , section 275 (a) .
(sec.46-ssec.1) A Queen’s Wharf tenure takes effect on registration of the tenure.
(sec.46-ssec.2) If, immediately before registration of the tenure, the land the subject of the tenure was a road, the road is permanently closed on the registration.
(sec.46-ssec.3) If, immediately before registration of the tenure, the land the subject of the tenure was a reserve, the dedication or the reservation and setting apart is revoked on the registration.
(sec.46-ssec.4) If, immediately before registration of the tenure, the land the subject of the tenure was contained in a deed of grant in trust, the deed of grant in trust is cancelled on the registration.
(sec.46-ssec.5) If, immediately before registration of the tenure, the land the subject of the tenure was leased under the Land Act to the State, the lease ends on the registration.
(sec.46-ssec.6) If, immediately before registration of the tenure, the land the subject of the tenure was subject to another interest, other than an ongoing interest, the interest ends on the registration.
(sec.46-ssec.7) The registration of the tenure must be subject to any ongoing interest identified in the declaration for the tenure.
(sec.46-ssec.8) The chief executive (land) must record the cancellation of an interest under this section in the appropriate register.
(sec.46-ssec.9) This section applies despite any requirement that would otherwise apply under the Land Act to the Land Act Minister or chief executive (land) in relation to cancelling, or registering the cancellation of, an interest.
(sec.46-ssec.10) In this section— cancel , an interest, includes permanently close a road, revoke a dedication or reservation and setting apart, and end a lease or other interest. registration — of a Queen’s Wharf deed—means registration in the freehold land register; or of a Queen’s Wharf headlease—means registration in the leasehold land register kept by the chief executive (land) under the Land Act , section 275 (a) .
(a) of a Queen’s Wharf deed—means registration in the freehold land register; or
(b) of a Queen’s Wharf headlease—means registration in the leasehold land register kept by the chief executive (land) under the Land Act , section 275 (a) .
sec.47
Compensation
sec.47 Compensation
This section applies to a person who has an interest in land, other than an interest under a services contract for the land, if the interest ends on the registration of a Queen’s Wharf tenure under section 46 (6) .
The person has a right to claim compensation for the ending of the interest by using the process stated in the Acquisition of Land Act 1967 , section 12 (5A) and (5B) and part 4 .
For applying the Acquisition of Land Act 1967 under subsection (2) —
the State is the constructing authority; and
a reference to land taken, or an interest in land taken, under that Act is taken to be a reference to the interest to which this section applies; and
for section 24 (2A) of that Act, a claimant refers a claim for compensation to the Land Court by filing in the office of the registrar of the court copies of the claim given by the claimant to the State and a copy of the declaration for the Queen’s Wharf tenure (the relevant declaration); and
the reference in section 24 (5) of that Act to the date of the gazette containing the gazette resumption notice taking the land is taken to be a reference to the date of the relevant declaration; and
the process under that Act applies even if—
the purpose stated in the relevant declaration is not a purpose for which land may be taken under that Act; or
the relevant declaration is ultimately for the purpose of conferring rights and interests on a person other than the State.
Other than as stated in this section, a person has no right to compensation for the effect of a declaration.
In this section—
services contract , for land, see the Acquisition of Land Act 1967 , section 12 (9) .
(sec.47-ssec.1) This section applies to a person who has an interest in land, other than an interest under a services contract for the land, if the interest ends on the registration of a Queen’s Wharf tenure under section 46 (6) .
(sec.47-ssec.2) The person has a right to claim compensation for the ending of the interest by using the process stated in the Acquisition of Land Act 1967 , section 12 (5A) and (5B) and part 4 .
(sec.47-ssec.3) For applying the Acquisition of Land Act 1967 under subsection (2) — the State is the constructing authority; and a reference to land taken, or an interest in land taken, under that Act is taken to be a reference to the interest to which this section applies; and for section 24 (2A) of that Act, a claimant refers a claim for compensation to the Land Court by filing in the office of the registrar of the court copies of the claim given by the claimant to the State and a copy of the declaration for the Queen’s Wharf tenure (the relevant declaration); and the reference in section 24 (5) of that Act to the date of the gazette containing the gazette resumption notice taking the land is taken to be a reference to the date of the relevant declaration; and the process under that Act applies even if— the purpose stated in the relevant declaration is not a purpose for which land may be taken under that Act; or the relevant declaration is ultimately for the purpose of conferring rights and interests on a person other than the State.
(sec.47-ssec.4) Other than as stated in this section, a person has no right to compensation for the effect of a declaration.
(sec.47-ssec.5) In this section— services contract , for land, see the Acquisition of Land Act 1967 , section 12 (9) .
(a) the State is the constructing authority; and
(b) a reference to land taken, or an interest in land taken, under that Act is taken to be a reference to the interest to which this section applies; and
(c) for section 24 (2A) of that Act, a claimant refers a claim for compensation to the Land Court by filing in the office of the registrar of the court copies of the claim given by the claimant to the State and a copy of the declaration for the Queen’s Wharf tenure (the relevant declaration); and
(d) the reference in section 24 (5) of that Act to the date of the gazette containing the gazette resumption notice taking the land is taken to be a reference to the date of the relevant declaration; and
(e) the process under that Act applies even if— (i) the purpose stated in the relevant declaration is not a purpose for which land may be taken under that Act; or (ii) the relevant declaration is ultimately for the purpose of conferring rights and interests on a person other than the State.
(i) the purpose stated in the relevant declaration is not a purpose for which land may be taken under that Act; or
(ii) the relevant declaration is ultimately for the purpose of conferring rights and interests on a person other than the State.
(i) the purpose stated in the relevant declaration is not a purpose for which land may be taken under that Act; or
(ii) the relevant declaration is ultimately for the purpose of conferring rights and interests on a person other than the State.
sec.48
Application of Land Act to granting and leasing
sec.48 Application of Land Act to granting and leasing
This division has effect despite any limitation or requirement under the following provisions of the Land Act —
section 15 (4) ;
section 16 ;
section 122 .
The Land Act , section 127 does not prevent land reclaimed under the authority of an Act from being—
included in a declaration; or
granted or leased in accordance with this division.
(sec.48-ssec.1) This division has effect despite any limitation or requirement under the following provisions of the Land Act — section 15 (4) ; section 16 ; section 122 .
(sec.48-ssec.2) The Land Act , section 127 does not prevent land reclaimed under the authority of an Act from being— included in a declaration; or granted or leased in accordance with this division.
(a) section 15 (4) ;
(b) section 16 ;
(c) section 122 .
(a) included in a declaration; or
(b) granted or leased in accordance with this division.
ch.5-pt.1-div.3
Dealings on Queen’s Wharf headlease land
Dealings on Queen’s Wharf headlease land
sec.49
Sublease dealings
sec.49 Sublease dealings
This section applies to the following dealings—
any subleasing of a Queen’s Wharf headlease under the Land Act , section 332 ;
transferring any sublease of a Queen’s Wharf headlease under the Land Act , section 322 ;
amending any sublease of a Queen’s Wharf headlease under the Land Act , section 336 .
Despite a section of the Land Act mentioned in subsection (1) , the Land Act Minister’s approval is not required for the dealing or the registration of a document for the dealing.
The requirements in the Land Act , section 332 (1) (a) (ii) and (iii) do not apply to any subleasing of a Queen’s Wharf headlease.
The Land Act , section 332 states requirements for subleasing.
The Land Act , section 322 states requirements for transfers of a sublease.
The Land Act , section 336 states requirements for amending a sublease.
(sec.49-ssec.1) This section applies to the following dealings— any subleasing of a Queen’s Wharf headlease under the Land Act , section 332 ; transferring any sublease of a Queen’s Wharf headlease under the Land Act , section 322 ; amending any sublease of a Queen’s Wharf headlease under the Land Act , section 336 .
(sec.49-ssec.2) Despite a section of the Land Act mentioned in subsection (1) , the Land Act Minister’s approval is not required for the dealing or the registration of a document for the dealing.
(sec.49-ssec.3) The requirements in the Land Act , section 332 (1) (a) (ii) and (iii) do not apply to any subleasing of a Queen’s Wharf headlease. The Land Act , section 332 states requirements for subleasing. The Land Act , section 322 states requirements for transfers of a sublease. The Land Act , section 336 states requirements for amending a sublease.
(a) any subleasing of a Queen’s Wharf headlease under the Land Act , section 332 ;
(b) transferring any sublease of a Queen’s Wharf headlease under the Land Act , section 322 ;
(c) amending any sublease of a Queen’s Wharf headlease under the Land Act , section 336 .
• The Land Act , section 332 states requirements for subleasing.
• The Land Act , section 322 states requirements for transfers of a sublease.
• The Land Act , section 336 states requirements for amending a sublease.
sec.50
Trust instruments
sec.50 Trust instruments
A person may hold an interest in a sublease of a Queen’s Wharf headlease in trust even if the requirement for the interest in trust to be registered under the Land Act , section 374A has not been met.
Subsection (1) does not affect a person registering the person’s interest as trustee in the way required under the Land Act , sections 374A and 375 .
The Land Act , sections 374A and 375 include requirements that apply to holding or registering an interest in a sublease in trust.
(sec.50-ssec.1) A person may hold an interest in a sublease of a Queen’s Wharf headlease in trust even if the requirement for the interest in trust to be registered under the Land Act , section 374A has not been met.
(sec.50-ssec.2) Subsection (1) does not affect a person registering the person’s interest as trustee in the way required under the Land Act , sections 374A and 375 . The Land Act , sections 374A and 375 include requirements that apply to holding or registering an interest in a sublease in trust.
sec.51
Concurrent sublease
sec.51 Concurrent sublease
If a sublease of a Queen’s Wharf headlease is granted over land, a concurrent sublease may also be granted over all or part of the land.
Subsection (1) is subject to any conditions of the Queen’s Wharf headlease or the sublease about the grant of a concurrent sublease.
(sec.51-ssec.1) If a sublease of a Queen’s Wharf headlease is granted over land, a concurrent sublease may also be granted over all or part of the land.
(sec.51-ssec.2) Subsection (1) is subject to any conditions of the Queen’s Wharf headlease or the sublease about the grant of a concurrent sublease.
sec.52
Licence
sec.52 Licence
A licence (a Queen’s Wharf licence ) may be granted to enter and use all or part of land subject to a Queen’s Wharf headlease or a sublease of a Queen’s Wharf headlease.
Subsection (1) is subject to any conditions of the Queen’s Wharf headlease or the sublease about the grant of the Queen’s Wharf licence.
(sec.52-ssec.1) A licence (a Queen’s Wharf licence ) may be granted to enter and use all or part of land subject to a Queen’s Wharf headlease or a sublease of a Queen’s Wharf headlease.
(sec.52-ssec.2) Subsection (1) is subject to any conditions of the Queen’s Wharf headlease or the sublease about the grant of the Queen’s Wharf licence.
sec.53
Application of Land Act to concurrent sublease or licence
sec.53 Application of Land Act to concurrent sublease or licence
To remove any doubt, it is declared that—
the Land Act Minister’s approval is not required for the grant of a concurrent sublease or a Queen’s Wharf licence; and
a concurrent sublease is a sublease that must be registered under the Land Act , section 335 .
(a) the Land Act Minister’s approval is not required for the grant of a concurrent sublease or a Queen’s Wharf licence; and
(b) a concurrent sublease is a sublease that must be registered under the Land Act , section 335 .
sec.54
Indemnity and insurance conditions for subleases and licences
sec.54 Indemnity and insurance conditions for subleases and licences
The indemnity and insurance conditions are conditions of each sublease of a Queen’s Wharf headlease or Queen’s Wharf licence.
For applying the indemnity and insurance conditions under subsection (1) —
a reference to a lease may be taken to include a reference to a sublease or Queen’s Wharf licence; and
a reference to a lessee may be taken to include a reference to a sublessee or Queen’s Wharf licensee.
In this section—
indemnity and insurance conditions means the conditions stated in the Land Regulation 2020 , schedule 1 , sections 1 and 2 .
The Land Regulation 2020 , schedule 1 , sections 1 and 2 state conditions about keeping the State indemnified in relation to claims and maintaining a current public liability insurance policy.
s 54 amd 2023 No. 2 sch 1 s 108
(sec.54-ssec.1) The indemnity and insurance conditions are conditions of each sublease of a Queen’s Wharf headlease or Queen’s Wharf licence.
(sec.54-ssec.2) For applying the indemnity and insurance conditions under subsection (1) — a reference to a lease may be taken to include a reference to a sublease or Queen’s Wharf licence; and a reference to a lessee may be taken to include a reference to a sublessee or Queen’s Wharf licensee.
(sec.54-ssec.3) In this section— indemnity and insurance conditions means the conditions stated in the Land Regulation 2020 , schedule 1 , sections 1 and 2 . The Land Regulation 2020 , schedule 1 , sections 1 and 2 state conditions about keeping the State indemnified in relation to claims and maintaining a current public liability insurance policy.
(a) a reference to a lease may be taken to include a reference to a sublease or Queen’s Wharf licence; and
(b) a reference to a lessee may be taken to include a reference to a sublessee or Queen’s Wharf licensee.
sec.55
Holding over term not affected
sec.55 Holding over term not affected
A holding over term in a sublease of a Queen’s Wharf headlease has effect even if it is inconsistent with the Land Act .
In this section—
holding over term , in a sublease, means a term of the sublease providing for the holding over right of the sublessee at the end of the sublease.
(sec.55-ssec.1) A holding over term in a sublease of a Queen’s Wharf headlease has effect even if it is inconsistent with the Land Act .
(sec.55-ssec.2) In this section— holding over term , in a sublease, means a term of the sublease providing for the holding over right of the sublessee at the end of the sublease.
sec.56
Disapplied mediation provisions
sec.56 Disapplied mediation provisions
The Land Act , chapter 6 , part 4 , division 3A , does not apply to a sublease of a Queen’s Wharf headlease.
The Land Act , chapter 6 , part 4 , division 3A provides for the chief executive to mediate disputes about terms of particular subleases.
sec.57
Application of other Land Act provisions to subleasing
sec.57 Application of other Land Act provisions to subleasing
This section applies if, under this division—
a provision (the affected provision ) of the Land Act does not apply to subleasing, or a sublease of, a Queen’s Wharf headlease; and
another provision (the applicable provision ) of the Land Act requires compliance with the affected provision in relation to subleasing or the sublease.
The requirement of the applicable provision is taken to have been complied with—
for applying the applicable provision; and
to the extent the affected provision does not apply.
The Land Act , section 299A (1) (a) prevents the registration of a document in the relevant register if the approval or consent of the Land Act Minister is required under the Land Act and the approval or consent has not been obtained. For applying this section to the requirement in the Land Act , section 332 (1) (a) (i) to obtain the Minister’s approval to sublease, the Minister is taken to have given the approval for applying section 299A .
For subsection (2) , a reference in the Land Act to a matter being authorised under that Act is taken to include a reference to the matter being authorised under this Act.
(sec.57-ssec.1) This section applies if, under this division— a provision (the affected provision ) of the Land Act does not apply to subleasing, or a sublease of, a Queen’s Wharf headlease; and another provision (the applicable provision ) of the Land Act requires compliance with the affected provision in relation to subleasing or the sublease.
(sec.57-ssec.2) The requirement of the applicable provision is taken to have been complied with— for applying the applicable provision; and to the extent the affected provision does not apply. The Land Act , section 299A (1) (a) prevents the registration of a document in the relevant register if the approval or consent of the Land Act Minister is required under the Land Act and the approval or consent has not been obtained. For applying this section to the requirement in the Land Act , section 332 (1) (a) (i) to obtain the Minister’s approval to sublease, the Minister is taken to have given the approval for applying section 299A .
(sec.57-ssec.3) For subsection (2) , a reference in the Land Act to a matter being authorised under that Act is taken to include a reference to the matter being authorised under this Act.
(a) a provision (the affected provision ) of the Land Act does not apply to subleasing, or a sublease of, a Queen’s Wharf headlease; and
(b) another provision (the applicable provision ) of the Land Act requires compliance with the affected provision in relation to subleasing or the sublease.
(a) for applying the applicable provision; and
(b) to the extent the affected provision does not apply. Example for subsection (2) — The Land Act , section 299A (1) (a) prevents the registration of a document in the relevant register if the approval or consent of the Land Act Minister is required under the Land Act and the approval or consent has not been obtained. For applying this section to the requirement in the Land Act , section 332 (1) (a) (i) to obtain the Minister’s approval to sublease, the Minister is taken to have given the approval for applying section 299A .
ch.5-pt.1-div.4
Conversion of State tenures to State freehold
Conversion of State tenures to State freehold
sec.57A
Definitions for division
sec.57A Definitions for division
In this division—
Brisbane Casino lease land means the following land subject to a term lease to The Star Entertainment Qld Limited ACN 010 741 045, in effect immediately before the commencement—
Lot 10 on B31753;
Lots 492 and 682 on CP855445;
Lot 300 on CP866930;
Lot 301 on CP866931;
Lot 11 on CP866932;
Lot 303 on CP866933;
Lot 304 on CP866934.
Queen’s Park reserve land means Lot 10 on CP866932.
Queen’s Wharf precinct lease land means the following land—
Lots 707 and 223 on SP289469;
Lot 706 on SP289470;
Lot 414 on SP312028;
Lot 228 on SP322273;
Lot 234 on SP338045.
s 57A ins 2023 No. 30 s 117
(a) Lot 10 on B31753;
(b) Lots 492 and 682 on CP855445;
(c) Lot 300 on CP866930;
(d) Lot 301 on CP866931;
(e) Lot 11 on CP866932;
(f) Lot 303 on CP866933;
(g) Lot 304 on CP866934.
(a) Lots 707 and 223 on SP289469;
(b) Lot 706 on SP289470;
(c) Lot 414 on SP312028;
(d) Lot 228 on SP322273;
(e) Lot 234 on SP338045.
sec.57B
Application of Land Act to division
sec.57B Application of Land Act to division
This division applies despite—
any limitation or requirement under the Land Act , section 16 or 122 ; or
any requirement that would otherwise apply, or right that would exist, under the Land Act in relation to revoking a reserve or ending a lease.
However, this division does not affect the operation of the Land Act , section 21 .
s 57B ins 2023 No. 30 s 117
(sec.57B-ssec.1) This division applies despite— any limitation or requirement under the Land Act , section 16 or 122 ; or any requirement that would otherwise apply, or right that would exist, under the Land Act in relation to revoking a reserve or ending a lease.
(sec.57B-ssec.2) However, this division does not affect the operation of the Land Act , section 21 .
(a) any limitation or requirement under the Land Act , section 16 or 122 ; or
(b) any requirement that would otherwise apply, or right that would exist, under the Land Act in relation to revoking a reserve or ending a lease.
sec.57C
Land to be converted
sec.57C Land to be converted
This division applies in relation to the following land—
Brisbane Casino lease land;
Queen’s Park reserve land;
Queen’s Wharf precinct lease land.
s 57C ins 2023 No. 30 s 117
(a) Brisbane Casino lease land;
(b) Queen’s Park reserve land;
(c) Queen’s Wharf precinct lease land.
sec.57D
Converting to State freehold
sec.57D Converting to State freehold
The Governor in Council must, under the Land Act , grant the land in fee simple to the State.
The land is taken to be unallocated State land for giving effect to subsection (1) .
The grant in fee simple for each part of the land takes effect on registration of the deed of grant for that land in the freehold land register.
On registration—
for Brisbane Casino lease land—
the reservation and setting apart of the Treasury Building reserve is revoked; and
the reserve over the land ends; and
all appointments of trustees for the reserve are cancelled; and
for Queen’s Park reserve land—
the reservation and setting apart of the Queen’s Park reserve is revoked; and
the reserve over the land ends; and
all appointments of trustees for the reserve are cancelled; and
for Queen’s Wharf precinct lease land—the Queen’s Wharf headlease ends over that part of the land.
Any other interests in any part of the land, in effect immediately before registration of the deed of grant, continue in effect, including—
the term lease over the Brisbane Casino lease land; and
an entry in the Queensland heritage register that the land is a State heritage place under the Queensland Heritage Act 1992 .
If an interest mentioned in subsection (5) was registered immediately before registration of the deed of grant for the land, the deed must be registered subject to the interest, with any necessary modifications required to give effect to this section.
A deed of grant issued by the Governor in Council in applying this section is also a Queen’s Wharf deed .
In this section—
Queen’s Park reserve means the reserve over Lot 10 on CP866932, known as Queen’s Park or Queen’s Gardens, in effect immediately before the commencement.
Treasury Building reserve means the reserve over Lot 492 on CP855445, known as the Treasury Building, in effect immediately before the commencement.
s 57D ins 2023 No. 30 s 117
(sec.57D-ssec.1) The Governor in Council must, under the Land Act , grant the land in fee simple to the State.
(sec.57D-ssec.2) The land is taken to be unallocated State land for giving effect to subsection (1) .
(sec.57D-ssec.3) The grant in fee simple for each part of the land takes effect on registration of the deed of grant for that land in the freehold land register.
(sec.57D-ssec.4) On registration— for Brisbane Casino lease land— the reservation and setting apart of the Treasury Building reserve is revoked; and the reserve over the land ends; and all appointments of trustees for the reserve are cancelled; and for Queen’s Park reserve land— the reservation and setting apart of the Queen’s Park reserve is revoked; and the reserve over the land ends; and all appointments of trustees for the reserve are cancelled; and for Queen’s Wharf precinct lease land—the Queen’s Wharf headlease ends over that part of the land.
(sec.57D-ssec.5) Any other interests in any part of the land, in effect immediately before registration of the deed of grant, continue in effect, including— the term lease over the Brisbane Casino lease land; and an entry in the Queensland heritage register that the land is a State heritage place under the Queensland Heritage Act 1992 .
(sec.57D-ssec.6) If an interest mentioned in subsection (5) was registered immediately before registration of the deed of grant for the land, the deed must be registered subject to the interest, with any necessary modifications required to give effect to this section.
(sec.57D-ssec.7) A deed of grant issued by the Governor in Council in applying this section is also a Queen’s Wharf deed .
(sec.57D-ssec.8) In this section— Queen’s Park reserve means the reserve over Lot 10 on CP866932, known as Queen’s Park or Queen’s Gardens, in effect immediately before the commencement. Treasury Building reserve means the reserve over Lot 492 on CP855445, known as the Treasury Building, in effect immediately before the commencement.
(a) for Brisbane Casino lease land— (i) the reservation and setting apart of the Treasury Building reserve is revoked; and (ii) the reserve over the land ends; and (iii) all appointments of trustees for the reserve are cancelled; and
(i) the reservation and setting apart of the Treasury Building reserve is revoked; and
(ii) the reserve over the land ends; and
(iii) all appointments of trustees for the reserve are cancelled; and
(b) for Queen’s Park reserve land— (i) the reservation and setting apart of the Queen’s Park reserve is revoked; and (ii) the reserve over the land ends; and (iii) all appointments of trustees for the reserve are cancelled; and
(i) the reservation and setting apart of the Queen’s Park reserve is revoked; and
(ii) the reserve over the land ends; and
(iii) all appointments of trustees for the reserve are cancelled; and
(c) for Queen’s Wharf precinct lease land—the Queen’s Wharf headlease ends over that part of the land.
(i) the reservation and setting apart of the Treasury Building reserve is revoked; and
(ii) the reserve over the land ends; and
(iii) all appointments of trustees for the reserve are cancelled; and
(i) the reservation and setting apart of the Queen’s Park reserve is revoked; and
(ii) the reserve over the land ends; and
(iii) all appointments of trustees for the reserve are cancelled; and
(a) the term lease over the Brisbane Casino lease land; and
(b) an entry in the Queensland heritage register that the land is a State heritage place under the Queensland Heritage Act 1992 .
ch.5-pt.2
Application of Land Title Act
Application of Land Title Act
sec.58
Registration of public thoroughfare easements
sec.58 Registration of public thoroughfare easements
This section applies to an instrument of easement—
in relation to Queen’s Wharf freehold land; and
for a right of way for the public; and
in favour of the State.
The Land Title Act , section 89 (4) , (5) and (6) does not apply to the registration of the easement under that Act.
An easement that, apart from subsection (2) , would not be registered under the Land Title Act is taken to be a public thoroughfare easement for that Act.
(sec.58-ssec.1) This section applies to an instrument of easement— in relation to Queen’s Wharf freehold land; and for a right of way for the public; and in favour of the State.
(sec.58-ssec.2) The Land Title Act , section 89 (4) , (5) and (6) does not apply to the registration of the easement under that Act.
(sec.58-ssec.3) An easement that, apart from subsection (2) , would not be registered under the Land Title Act is taken to be a public thoroughfare easement for that Act.
(a) in relation to Queen’s Wharf freehold land; and
(b) for a right of way for the public; and
(c) in favour of the State.
ch.5-pt.3
Application of Property Law Act 2023
Application of Property Law Act 2023
sec.59
Non-application of s 142
sec.59 Non-application of s 142
The Property Law Act 2023 , section 142 does not apply to a Queen’s Wharf lease.
s 59 amd 2023 No. 27 s 289 sch 3
ch.5-pt.4
Application of Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008
Application of Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008
sec.60
Declaration about application of Act
sec.60 Declaration about application of Act
This section applies to a Queen’s Wharf lease if the lease is for, or for purposes that include, residential purposes.
For the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008 , section 26 (1) , the Queen’s Wharf lease is taken to be granted under the authority of this Act.
The Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008 , section 26 (1) states that the Act does not apply to particular leases granted under the authority of an authorising law if the State is the lessor.
Nothing in this section affects the application of the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008 to a sublease of the Queen’s Wharf lease.
The Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008 , section 26 (3) states that the Act applies to a sublease to the extent it is not inconsistent with the authorising law.
(sec.60-ssec.1) This section applies to a Queen’s Wharf lease if the lease is for, or for purposes that include, residential purposes.
(sec.60-ssec.2) For the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008 , section 26 (1) , the Queen’s Wharf lease is taken to be granted under the authority of this Act. The Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008 , section 26 (1) states that the Act does not apply to particular leases granted under the authority of an authorising law if the State is the lessor.
(sec.60-ssec.3) Nothing in this section affects the application of the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008 to a sublease of the Queen’s Wharf lease. The Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008 , section 26 (3) states that the Act applies to a sublease to the extent it is not inconsistent with the authorising law.
ch.5-pt.5
Application of Retail Shop Leases Act 1994
Application of Retail Shop Leases Act 1994
sec.61
Queen’s Wharf lease not a retail shop lease
sec.61 Queen’s Wharf lease not a retail shop lease
This section applies to a Queen’s Wharf lease if the lease is for, or for purposes that include, a retail shop.
To remove any doubt, it is declared that the Queen’s Wharf lease is not a retail shop lease under the Retail Shop Leases Act 1994 .
In this section—
retail shop see the Retail Shop Leases Act 1994 , section 5B .
(sec.61-ssec.1) This section applies to a Queen’s Wharf lease if the lease is for, or for purposes that include, a retail shop.
(sec.61-ssec.2) To remove any doubt, it is declared that the Queen’s Wharf lease is not a retail shop lease under the Retail Shop Leases Act 1994 .
(sec.61-ssec.3) In this section— retail shop see the Retail Shop Leases Act 1994 , section 5B .
ch.5-pt.6
Application of Transport Infrastructure Act 1994
Application of Transport Infrastructure Act 1994
sec.62
Non-application of s 105ZP
sec.62 Non-application of s 105ZP
This section applies to a public thoroughfare easement registered—
in relation to Queen’s Wharf freehold land; and
under the Land Title Act , section 89 , because of the operation of section 58 .
The Transport Infrastructure Act 1994 , section 105ZP does not apply to the public thoroughfare easement or land affected by the easement.
(sec.62-ssec.1) This section applies to a public thoroughfare easement registered— in relation to Queen’s Wharf freehold land; and under the Land Title Act , section 89 , because of the operation of section 58 .
(sec.62-ssec.2) The Transport Infrastructure Act 1994 , section 105ZP does not apply to the public thoroughfare easement or land affected by the easement.
(a) in relation to Queen’s Wharf freehold land; and
(b) under the Land Title Act , section 89 , because of the operation of section 58 .
ch.5-pt.7
Declaration about particular agreements
Declaration about particular agreements
sec.63
Agreement amounts are not penalties
sec.63 Agreement amounts are not penalties
This section applies to an agreement if—
the State is a party to the agreement; and
the agreement relates to the development of land within the Queen’s Wharf priority development area; and
a term of the agreement entitles the State to keep an amount given to it by another party in the event of a termination of the agreement.
It is declared that—
the term of the agreement has effect even if it is inconsistent with the common law; and
the amount is not a penalty at law.
(sec.63-ssec.1) This section applies to an agreement if— the State is a party to the agreement; and the agreement relates to the development of land within the Queen’s Wharf priority development area; and a term of the agreement entitles the State to keep an amount given to it by another party in the event of a termination of the agreement.
(sec.63-ssec.2) It is declared that— the term of the agreement has effect even if it is inconsistent with the common law; and the amount is not a penalty at law.
(a) the State is a party to the agreement; and
(b) the agreement relates to the development of land within the Queen’s Wharf priority development area; and
(c) a term of the agreement entitles the State to keep an amount given to it by another party in the event of a termination of the agreement.
(a) the term of the agreement has effect even if it is inconsistent with the common law; and
(b) the amount is not a penalty at law.
Source text: opening excerpt
Sourced from Queensland Legislation (legislation.qld.gov.au), CC BY 4.0.
ch.1-pt.1 Introduction
Introduction
sec.1 Short title
sec.1 Short title
This Act may be cited as the Queen’s Wharf Brisbane Act 2016 .
sec.2 Commencement
sec.2 Commencement
This Act commences on a day to be fixed by proclamation.
sec.3 Purposes
sec.3 Purposes
The main purposes of this Act are the following—
to provide for the ratification of an agreement for a casino to be located within the Queen’s Wharf priority development area;
to enact the agreement as a law;
to provide for the way in which an entity may become, or stop being, a party to the agreement;
to state the requirements for holding interests in relation to an entity that is a party to, or referred to in, the agreement;
to provide for the interaction between this Act and other laws.
(a) to provide for the ratification of an agreement for a casino to be located within the Queen’s Wharf priority development area;
(b) to enact the agreement as a law;
(c) to provide for the way in which an entity may become, or stop being, a party to the agreement;
(d) to state the requirements for holding interests in relation to an entity that is a party to, or referred to in, the agreement;
(e) to provide for the interaction between this Act and other laws.
sec.4 Relationship with other Acts generally
sec.4 Relationship with other Acts generally
If a provision of this Act is inconsistent with another Act, the provision prevails over the other Act to the extent of the inconsistency.
Subsection (1) does not affect a provision of this Act or another Act that expressly deals with the interaction between this Act and the other Act.
(sec.4-ssec.1) If a provision of this Act is inconsistent with another Act, the provision prevails over the other Act to the extent of the inconsistency.
(sec.4-ssec.2) Subsection (1) does not affect a provision of this Act or another Act that expressly deals with the interaction between this Act and the other Act.
sec.5 Act binds all persons
sec.5 Act binds all persons
This Act binds all persons, including the State.
Nothing in this Act makes the State liable to be prosecuted for an offence.
(sec.5-ssec.1) This Act binds all persons, including the State.
(sec.5-ssec.2) Nothing in this Act makes the State liable to be prosecuted for an offence.
ch.1-pt.2 Interpretation
Interpretation
It gives the Minister and Governor in Council powers to use show‑cause procedures, direct remedial action, require disposal of interests, and to treat persons as having obtained approvals where they satisfy suitability tests under the Control Act (ss 30-37).
It creates a framework for the State to acquire or lease land within the Queen’s Wharf area more quickly than the ordinary Land Act processes, by declaratory instrument and by directing grant or lease to the State at nominal rent in certain cases; it makes registration of such "Queen’s Wharf tenures" effective to cancel or end prior rights (chs 5 pt 1 divs 2-4, ss 41-57D). The Minister may declare land to be granted in fee simple or leased to the State (s 43), the Governor in Council must grant freehold where declared (s 44) and the Land Act Minister must lease where declared (s 45), with leases at $1 a year if demanded (s 45(4)(b)).
It alters application of other Acts: the Act prevails over inconsistent Acts to the extent of inconsistency (s 4), declares that certain amounts payable to the State under development agreements are not legal penalties (s 63), and makes localised disapplications and adaptations of the Land Act, Land Title Act and other Queensland statute provisions for Queen’s Wharf land (eg ss 48, 58, 62, 57-57D, 61).
Who decides under the Act and how is structured in several locations: the Minister and the Governor in Council have explicit roles for approvals, declarations of relevant entities, and directions; subordinate legislation and regulations are used for notice and exemption regimes; and the Control Act is the mechanism for suitability investigations (s 24, s 17(3)-(4), ss 20-26, ss 27-29, ss 30-37, ss 43-46). The Act binds all persons including the State (s 5(1)), but explicitly does not make the State liable to be prosecuted for an offence (s 5(2)).
This summary presents the mechanical changes first. Later sections explain the concepts, the precise duties and rights, enforcement pathways, interactions with other laws, the amendment timeline found in the text, litigation history (as provided), practical compliance steps and specific "gotchas" that arise from the drafting.
Main concepts
The Act operates through a small set of recurring technical concepts; lawyers and compliance officers should map these precisely to corporate structures and trusts in their records because the Act expressly imports Corporations Act definitions and treats trusts in a tailored way.
Relevant entity
Defined as entities listed in the casino agreement schedule 3 (column 1 or 2), entities that later become parties to the casino agreement by the chapter 3 process, and entities the Minister declares to be relevant entities (s 17(1)). The Minister may also declare entities not to be relevant entities (s 17(2)). The Minister’s declaration is subordinate legislation and must be given to the entity (s 17(5)-(6)). Trustees and trusts may be separate relevant entities (s 17(1) note; s 19).
The Act imports the Corporations Act meaning of a person’s relevant interest in interests or convertible securities (s 18(1)); it clarifies that interests in trusts are taken to be securities (s 18(2)). The definitions of voting and non‑voting interests, convertible securities and the treatment of voting power reference specific Corporations Act provisions and incorporate the managed investment scheme concept for trusts (s 16). Section 16 emphasises the need to treat voting power in a corporate relevant entity separately from voting power in a trust for which that corporate is trustee.
Approval thresholds
The Act sets threshold bands that trigger mandatory prior approvals. For the licensee, IR Holdco, any relevant entity trustee of the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust, and the IR Holding/Operating Trusts themselves, voting power must not, without approval, rise above bands that require the Minister (for >5%-10%) or the Governor in Council (for >10%-20% and >20%) (s 20). For non‑voting interests and convertible securities in those same entities, thresholds are >10%-20% and >20% and approvals must be given by the Governor in Council (ss 21-22). For other relevant entities (outside s 20(1)), voting power must not exceed 20% without Governor in Council approval (s 23).
Suitability and the Control Act
The Act ties approvals to suitability under the State’s existing casino control scheme. Approvals under the division may only be given where the decision‑maker is satisfied that the applicant is a suitable person, on the basis of an investigation under the Control Act (s 24). The Minister can require a person to satisfy the Governor in Council under Control Act s 30 that they are suitable, and if they do so they are taken to have obtained the required approval (s 32(2)-(3)).
Notice, disclosure and evidential burdens
The Act enables regulations to require disclosure to the licensee, IR Holdco or the Minister (s 27). For other relevant entities, a person whose voting power exceeds 10% must notify the relevant entity within 5 business days (s 28(1)), and the relevant entity must notify the Minister within 10 business days of becoming aware (s 28(2)-(3)). A separate disclosure scheme allows a relevant entity to issue a disclosure notice to a holder or named person, requiring disclosure of the recipient’s relevant interest, associates, instructions and circumstances within 2 business days (s 39-40). Section 40 carries a maximum penalty of 40 penalty units, but disclosure is limited to matters known to the recipient and subsection (3) places an evidential burden on the defendant to show ignorance of matters.
Land and tenure concepts
"Queen’s Wharf area" and "Queen’s Wharf tenure" are specialised land‑law concepts in pt 5 (s 42). The Minister may declare State acquisition or leasehold of Queen’s Wharf area land under an instrument (s 43). A Queen’s Wharf deed is the deed of grant in freehold (s 44(4)); a Queen’s Wharf headlease is the lease issued to the State under s 45 and may be subleased, licensed and otherwise dealt with under a bespoke set of Land Act adaptations (ss 44-57). The Act makes registration of a Queen’s Wharf tenure the operative event that cancels or ends prior rights (s 46). Section 47 sets a defined process for compensation where interests end on registration, using the Acquisition of Land Act and its Land Court referral mechanics.
Prevailing and declaratory rules
Section 4 gives this Act precedence over inconsistent Acts to the extent of the inconsistency, while taking care not to affect provisions that themselves expressly deal with interaction. Section 63 declares that amounts the State may keep under development agreements on termination are not penalties at law and that such terms have effect notwithstanding common law.
Subordinate legislation and regulation
The Act repeatedly relies on subordinate legislation: declarations that create Queen’s Wharf tenures are subordinate legislation (s 43(8)); a Ministerial notice declaring relevant entities is subordinate legislation (s 17(5)); regulations may exempt persons from requirements (s 29) and may require reporting to entities or the Minister (s 27). That places compliance and some operational details into delegated instruments.
Together these concepts create a layered control and information regime: (1) a class of entities and holdings are put under pre‑clearance and reporting constraints tied to suitability checks; (2) rapid disclosure and short compliance windows are imposed; (3) the State acquires an express statutory route to take or lease land in the Queen’s Wharf area with a set of consequential registration effects; and (4) the Act modifies other Acts’ application in limited, specified ways (s 4, s 48, s 57, s 58, s 62, s 61).
Who it affects
The Act affects a defined, industrially concentrated set of actors and several otherwise general groups. The statute itself defines who is in scope.
Primary, directly affected parties
Entities listed in the casino agreement schedule 3 (column 1 or 2) are relevant entities and are directly regulated by the Act (s 17(1)(a)). The document provided here does not reproduce schedule 3, but the legislative structure treats those schedule entries as automatic inclusions (s 17). Entities that become party to the casino agreement under chapter 3 are also relevant entities (s 17(1)(b)). Relevant entities will therefore include corporate licensees, holding companies, trusts and other special purpose vehicles identified in the casino agreement.
Owners and potential acquirers of equity and securities in relevant entities
Any person acquiring voting power, non‑voting interests or convertible securities in a relevant entity is affected by the thresholds and approval requirements (ss 20-23). That includes direct holders and their associates (s 16 definition of associate and ss 21-22 which aggregate associates’ positions in calculating thresholds). The Act treats interests in trusts as securities (s 18(2) and s 16 definitions), and s 19 makes trustees individually liable for obligations that apply to a trust.
Trustees, beneficiaries and advisers
Trustees are explicitly treated as separate relevant entities where appropriate and are subject to trustee‑level obligations under the Act, including the requirement for each trustee to comply in their capacity where a provision is applied to a trust (s 19(1)-(2)). Beneficiaries, especially if they hold interests directly, will be affected via disclosure and approval rules (s 40). Advisers who give instructions that affect interests may appear in disclosure obligations: s 40 requires naming persons who have given instructions about acquisition, disposal or exercise of rights attached to interests.
Licensee, IR Holdco, IR Holding Trust / IR Operating Trust
The Act singles out the licensee and IR Holdco, and any relevant entity that is trustee of the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust, for the strictest voting power bands and a separate set of approval processes (s 20). Persons with interests in those entities face lower thresholds and Ministerial control for the >5%-10% band (s 20(2)-(3)).
The State and its agencies
The State is directly affected as a decision‑maker (Minister, Governor in Council), as a participant in land dealings (ss 43-46), and as a beneficiary of contractual monies (s 63). The Act binds the State (s 5(1)) but also states that the Act does not make the State liable to be prosecuted for an offence (s 5(2)). The Land Act Minister and chief executive (land) are given specific duties in respect of grants, leases and registration (ss 44-46).
Persons who hold or manage land within Queen’s Wharf area
Owners, lessees, trustees and others with existing interests in land potentially included in a declaration under s 43 are affected. A declaration can identify land to be granted in fee simple or leased to the State (s 43); registration of a Queen’s Wharf tenure has the effect of cancelling or ending prior interests (s 46), though an express compensation route is provided for interests that end on registration under s 47 using the Acquisition of Land Act process.
Those subject to disclosure regimes and regulators
Relevant entities may require disclosures from holders or named persons under s 39-40; regulations may require persons to give the licensee, IR Holdco, or the Minister information about matters related to interests or convertible securities (s 27). Persons required by regulation to give information will be affected by administrative reporting obligations.
Persons engaged in leasing, subleasing and development activity at Queen’s Wharf
The Act modifies Land Act processes for subleases, transfers and amendments of subleases, and removes the need for the Land Act Minister’s approval for sublease dealings of Queen’s Wharf headlease land (s 49). Those who would normally need to register trust holdings under the Land Act are given a temporary or specific right to hold in trust without immediate registration (s 50). Concurrent subleases and licences for entry/use are expressly permitted (ss 51-53). Indemnity and insurance conditions for subleases and licences are mandated (s 54).
Indirectly affected parties and market participants
Banks, financiers and purchasers contemplating security over interests in relevant entities or subleases should take the Act’s disclosure, approval and disposal powers into account: directions from the Governor in Council can compel disposal of all interests (s 37) and the Act provides procedures for show cause and suitability enquiries that can crystallise adverse directions and disposal obligations (ss 30-37). Heritage and statutory instruments that are registered against land are preserved on conversion to freehold (s 57D(5)-(6)), so heritage authorities and recipients of heritage protections remain relevant stakeholders.
Who decides and who pays
Decision-making powers reside with the Minister and the Governor in Council for approvals, directions, and declarations of relevant entity status (ss 17, 20-26, 30-37, 43). Persons who acquire or hold securities above thresholds pay the compliance costs, notification burdens, and potentially the transaction costs of seeking suitability clearance under the Control Act (s 24, s 32). Persons who fail to comply face civil penalties, directions to remedy, or forced disposal (ss 28(1), 34, 37). The State pays compensation only in specific cases where an interest ends on registration and the claimant follows the Acquisition of Land Act process (s 47).
By concentrating controls on a defined roster of corporate and trust entities connected to the casino agreement, the Act concentrates regulatory burden and decision rights in the State and its decision makers while imposing time‑sensitive disclosure and approval obligations on holders and prospective acquirers of relevant securities.
Key duties and rights
This section summarises the Act’s operational obligations, the rights given to regulated parties, and the administrative pathways the statute creates. References are to the sections of the Act that create the duties and rights.
Duties to obtain approval before acquiring or increasing interests
Persons acquiring voting power, non‑voting interests or convertible securities in a relevant entity must avoid exceeding statutory thresholds without obtaining the "required approval" (ss 20-23). The thresholds differ depending on the entity: for the licensee/IR Holdco and certain trust trustees and trusts, voting power bands are >5%-10% (Minister), >10%-20% and >20% (Governor in Council) (s 20). For non‑voting interests and convertible securities in those entities, the Governor in Council must grant approval for >10%-20% and >20% bands (ss 21-22). For other relevant entities, voting power cannot exceed 20% without Governor in Council approval (s 23). Approvals can be conditional (s 25), and must comply with suitability checks under the Control Act (s 24).
Suitability and procedural duties
An approval may only be given if the decision maker is satisfied of suitability on the basis of a Control Act investigation (s 24). The Minister may require the person to satisfy the Governor in Council under the Control Act that they are suitable, and if they do so they are taken to have obtained the required approval (s 32(2)-(3)). Where conditions attach to an approval, compliance is mandatory and can be enforced by direction under pt 3 div 1 (s 25(1)-(2)).
Disclosure and notice duties
Regulations may require reporting to the licensee, IR Holdco or the Minister of information about matters related to interests or convertible securities (s 27). Separately, if voting power in a non‑listed relevant entity (outside s 27(2) class) exceeds 10% but is not more than 20%, the person must give the relevant entity written notice in the approved form within 5 business days (s 28(1)). The relevant entity must then notify the Minister within 10 business days of becoming aware (s 28(2)-(3)). Where the Corporations Act pt 6C.2 does not apply, the relevant entity may issue a disclosure notice requiring robust disclosure within 2 business days (s 38-40). Section 40 prescribes the contents to be disclosed and imposes a maximum penalty of 40 penalty units for noncompliance; disclosure is limited to what is known to the recipient (s 40(2)), and the defendant bears an evidential burden to prove ignorance (s 40(3)).
Ministerial show‑cause and remedial powers
If the Minister suspects a person has not complied with an approval requirement or an approval condition, the Minister may issue a show cause notice specifying proposed remedial action, grounds, facts and a show‑cause period (at least 21 days) (s 30). The Minister must consider written representations (s 31). After representations, if the Minister regards the person as non‑compliant and considers an investigation appropriate, the Minister may require the person to satisfy the Governor in Council under the Control Act that they are suitable (s 32). If not satisfied, the Minister may recommend directions to the Governor in Council. The Governor in Council may direct the person to take stated action to remedy noncompliance within a required period (normally within two months) (s 34). Noncompliance with such a direction carries a maximum penalty of 200 penalty units (s 34(4)).
Directions to dispose of holdings
Where the Minister on investigation believes a holder is not suitable, has contravened specified obligations or the casino agreement clauses, the Minister may recommend that the Governor in Council direct the person to dispose of all interests and convertible securities in each relevant entity within a required period (s 36). The Governor in Council may, on that recommendation, issue a written direction to dispose in the prescribed timeframe (normally within two months) (s 37). Failure to comply attracts the maximum penalty of 200 penalty units (s 37(5)).
Rights and processes for persons
The Act affords procedural protections: show‑cause notice with a minimum 21‑day period (s 30(4)). Where a person satisfies the Governor in Council as suitable under the Control Act process, they are taken to have obtained the required approval and no further action will be taken in relation to the show‑cause notice (s 32(3)). The Act also provides regulatory gateways: regulations may exempt classes of persons or circumstances from the approval requirements (s 29). A person served with a disclosure notice may defend that it was vexatious (s 40(4)).
Rights created for the State and holders in land deals
The Minister may declare land to be granted or leased to the State (s 43). The Governor in Council must grant land declared freehold to the State under the Land Act (s 44). The Land Act Minister must lease land declared leasehold to the State (s 45), and leases are to be at $1 a year if demanded (s 45(4)(b)). Registration of a Queen’s Wharf tenure is the operative event causing cancellation or ending of prior interests (s 46). Persons whose interests end on registration have the right to claim compensation by the Acquisition of Land Act process (s 47).
Modifications of existing statutory processes
The Act modifies Land Act processes for subleases and other dealings over Queen’s Wharf headlease land by removing the requirement for the Land Act Minister’s approval for certain sublease dealings and registration (s 49(2)). It exempts the mediation scheme in the Land Act chapter 6 part 4 div 3A for those subleases (s 56), permits holding in trust without immediate registration (s 50), allows concurrent subleases (s 51), creates Queen’s Wharf licences for entry and use (s 52), and makes indemnity and insurance provisions compulsory for subleases and licences (s 54).
Declaratory and overriding rights
Section 4 gives the Act precedence over other Acts where inconsistent. Section 63 gives the State the right to retain amounts payable under development agreements on termination as effective even if inconsistent with common law, and declares such amounts not to be penalties at law.
These duties and rights create an administrative compliance regime for ownership and control of entities connected to the casino agreement, a fast‑track land tenure mechanism for the State, and criminal‑law‑adjacent civil enforcement by way of orders, directions and pecuniary penalties.
Penalties and enforcement
The Act deploys civil penalties, directions backed by monetary penalty units, and administrative enforcement pathways linked to suitability investigations under the Control Act. It does not create State criminal liability for the State (s 5(2)). Enforcement mechanisms, who may act, timelines and penalty quantum are set out in the relevant parts.
Administrative enforcement tools
Show‑cause notices: the Minister may issue a show‑cause notice if the Minister reasonably suspects non‑compliance with approval requirements or conditions (s 30). The show‑cause notice must specify proposed action, grounds, facts and invite submissions within a show‑cause period of at least 21 days (s 30(2)-(4)). The Minister must give a copy of the show‑cause notice to the relevant entity and, where relevant, to the consortium parent (s 30(5)). The Minister must consider all written representations made during the show‑cause period (s 31).
Directions: On the Minister’s recommendation, the Governor in Council may direct a person to take stated action to remedy non‑compliance within a required period (s 34). The Governor in Council may also direct a person to dispose of all their interests and convertible securities in each relevant entity following a Ministerial recommendation (s 37).
Penalties
Failure to comply with a direction to remedy non‑compliance is an offence carrying a maximum penalty of 200 penalty units (s 34(4)). Likewise, failure to comply with a direction to dispose of interests and convertible securities carries a maximum penalty of 200 penalty units (s 37(5)). Non‑disclosure under the disclosure notice regime has a maximum penalty of 40 penalty units (s 40(1)). Failure to give the 5‑day notice when voting power exceeds 10% in the non‑s 27(2) class of relevant entities also attracts a maximum penalty of 40 penalty units (s 28(1)).
Enforcement pathways and evidential features
The Act links approval decisions to suitability investigations under the Control Act. Section 24 permits approvals only where the decision maker is satisfied on the basis of an investigation under the Control Act. Section 32 permits the Minister to require a person, following representations, to satisfy the Governor in Council under the Control Act that they are suitable; if satisfied, the person is treated as having obtained the required approval (s 32(2)-(3)). These cross‑references to the Control Act import that Act’s investigative and adjudicative machinery; the current text of the Control Act is needed to map the detailed investigation powers.
The Act also uses delegated instruments and administrative notices. A Ministerial declaration of a relevant entity is subordinate legislation (s 17(5)); a declaration making land subject to Queen’s Wharf tenure is subordinate legislation (s 43(8)). Regulations may create exemptions (s 29) or impose further notice duties (s 27).
The evidential burden provision in s 40(3) is notable: for a breach of the disclosure notice obligation, subsection (2) limits disclosure to what is known by the recipient and subsection (3) places an evidential burden on the defendant to show the extent to which the matter was not known. That shifts the evidential onus in proceedings, potentially affecting litigation strategy.
Limits and protections
The Act builds procedure into enforcement: show‑cause periods, rights to make written representations (ss 30-31), and the opportunity to satisfy suitability criteria (s 32) before mandatory disposal directions are imposed. The Minister can, however, recommend immediate direction without a show‑cause notice where the Minister believes the integrity of the casino operation may be jeopardised or the public interest adversely affected (s 33(2)). That creates a pathway for expedited enforcement where the Minister certifies material jeopardy.
The Act provides compensation rights under the Acquisition of Land Act for persons whose interests end on registration of a Queen’s Wharf tenure (s 47). That is a separate form of relief and does not remove the enforcement powers directed at holders of securities or voting power.
Practical enforcement sequence
A suspected non‑compliance is identified by the Minister.
A show‑cause notice is issued (usually), affording at least 21 days to respond (s 30).
The Minister considers representations (s 31).
The Minister may initiate a Control Act investigation or require suitability to be proved under the Control Act (s 32).
If non‑compliance stands, the Minister may recommend to the Governor in Council that directions be given (s 33).
The Governor in Council may direct remedial action or disposal within the statutory timeframes (ss 34, 37). Failure to comply exposes the person to the specified penalty units.
Quantums and currency
The Act refers to penalty units but does not set their monetary equivalent; penalty units are determined by the Penalties and Sentences Act and current legislative instruments. Practitioners should cross‑check the then‑current value of a penalty unit when quantifying exposure.
Overall enforcement combines administrative discretion (Minister and Governor in Council), statutory remedies (directions, disposal orders), civil pecuniary penalties and the investigative machinery of the Control Act. Timing requirements and evidential burdens are embedded in the Act and can materially affect a targeted person’s ability to respond and retain holdings.
How it interacts with other laws
The Act is drafted to operate in tandem and, in several places, to override or disapply elements of existing Queensland laws and to import definitions and processes from Commonwealth corporate law. The statute also references the Control Act for suitability inquiries and the Acquisition of Land Act for compensation. The exact interaction lines are expressed explicitly in several sections.
Priority and inconsistency
Section 4 states that if a provision of this Act is inconsistent with another Act, the provision of this Act prevails to the extent of the inconsistency (s 4(1)). Subsection (2) clarifies that this supremacy does not affect provisions of this Act or another Act that expressly deal with interaction between this Act and that other Act. That gives the Queen’s Wharf Act a statutory supremacy in its subject matters while leaving express cross‑references intact.
Incorporation and cross‑references to other Acts
Corporations Act: The Act repeatedly imports meanings from the Corporations Act for "associate" (s 16), for relevant interest (s 18), and for voting/non‑voting share concepts in bodies corporate or trusts treated as managed investment schemes (s 16, s 18). Practitioners must therefore read the Corporations Act definitions and aggregation rules alongside this Act where relevant.
Control Act: Suitability investigations and the test for giving approvals are tied to investigations under the Control Act (s 24, s 32). The Act does not restate suitability criteria but depends on the Control Act’s investigative powers (Control Act ss 20 and 30 are cited). To understand the due process and investigative powers available to the executive it is necessary to consult the Control Act.
Land Act and Land Regulation: The Act creates bespoke disapplications and modifications to the Land Act framework in relation to Queen’s Wharf tenures. It provides alternative routes for grants and leases to the State and limits application of certain Land Act provisions (s 48). Subleasing, transfer and amendment rules ordinarily in the Land Act do not require the Land Act Minister’s approval for Queen’s Wharf headlease land (s 49). The indemnity and insurance conditions that are required for Queen’s Wharf subleases and licences are those stated in the Land Regulation 2020, schedule 1, ss 1 and 2 (s 54).
Acquisition of Land Act: When a Queen’s Wharf tenure registration ends pre‑existing interests, s 47 gives persons a right to claim compensation according to the Acquisition of Land Act (s 47(2)) and prescribes how references in that Act should be read for Queen’s Wharf purposes. Practitioners handling land claims must follow the Acquisition of Land Act procedures as adapted by s 47(3).
Land Title Act: For registration of public thoroughfare easements in relation to Queen’s Wharf freehold land, s 58 makes specified subsections of the Land Title Act inapplicable and declares that otherwise unregistrable easements are to be treated as "public thoroughfare easements" for that Act (s 58(2)-(3)). That will affect how public rights of way and easements are registered.
Transport Infrastructure Act 1994: Where a public thoroughfare easement is registered under the Land Title Act as a result of s 58, section 62 provides that the Transport Infrastructure Act s 105ZP does not apply to that easement or land affected (s 62). That limits the operation of the Transport Infrastructure Act regime for those registered easements.
Property Law Act 2023 and Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008 and Retail Shop Leases Act 1994: The statute records certain non‑applications and declaratory interactions. Section 59 states that Property Law Act 2023 s 142 does not apply to a Queen’s Wharf lease (s 59). Section 60 declares that where a Queen’s Wharf lease is for residential purposes, it is taken to be granted under the authority of this Act for the purposes of the Residential Tenancies Act s 26(1), which otherwise disapplies the RT Act to State leases granted under authority (s 60). Section 61 declares that Queen’s Wharf leases for retail shops are not retail shop leases under the Retail Shop Leases Act 1994 (s 61).
Delegation and subordinate instruments
Several functions are delegated to regulations and to the Minister’s subordinate instruments: declaration of relevant entities, declaration of land, exemptions, and forms and timing for notices. Subordinate legislation is explicitly used in s 17(5), s 43(8), s 27(3) and s 29. This means operational specifics such as the content and form of notices, exempt classes, or the identity of additional reporting obligations may be set by delegated instruments.
Consequential and saving provisions
Section 46 contains saving language to ensure the registration of a Queen’s Wharf deed or headlease operates despite otherwise applicable Land Act requirements for cancellation of interests and record keeping. Section 57 deals with the logical problem where some Land Act provisions are disapplied; it declares that where an affected Land Act provision does not apply to a Queen’s Wharf sublease, and another Land Act provision requires compliance with the affected provision, the requirement is taken to have been complied with to the extent the affected provision does not apply (s 57). Section 48 lists Land Act provisions that this division has effect despite.
Declaratory overrides of common law
Section 63 expressly declares that where the State is a party to an agreement relating to development in the Queen’s Wharf priority development area, and the agreement allows the State to keep an amount on termination, that term has effect even if inconsistent with the common law and the amount is not a penalty at law (s 63). That overrides a common law doctrine into which the Act speaks.
Net effect
The Act is constructed to be a self‑contained regulatory and land‑tenure package for the Queen’s Wharf project: it imports commercial definitions, preserves some protections (eg compensation under the Acquisition of Land Act), modifies or disapplies particular provisions of the Land Act, Land Title Act and other Queensland statutes in that site‑specific context, and places procedural and substantive ownership and disclosure controls on a defined set of corporate and trust entities tied to the development agreement. Practitioners must read the Act with the Corporations Act, the Control Act, the Land Act, the Land Title Act and the Acquisition of Land Act to locate the applicable procedures, definitions and remedies.
Amendment history
The text supplied contains explicit in‑text amendment annotations. These indicate the statute has been amended since its original enactment. The following is a source‑grounded list of amendments and insertions shown in the provided text, with the Act sections they affected and the legislative citation as presented in the text.
2018 amendments
Section 41 (Purpose of part) , amended: noted as "s 41 amd 2018 No. 22 s 15". That indicates an amendment in 2018 identified as No. 22, section 15. It updated the purpose language in the part concerning facilitating State commitments in relation to Queen’s Wharf area land (s 41).
Section 43 (Declaration) , amended: noted "s 43 amd 2018 No. 22 s 17". This amendment adjusted the mechanics or form of declarations under s 43.
Section 42 (Interpretation for part) , insertion or amendment: "s 42 def Queen’s Wharf area ins 2018 No. 22 s 16". That shows the definition for Queen’s Wharf area was inserted or revised in the 2018 instrument.
2023 amendments and insertions
Section 54 (Indemnity and insurance conditions for subleases and licences) , amendment: "s 54 amd 2023 No. 2 sch 1 s 108". The Land Regulation linkage or the textual reference to schedule provisions was updated in 2023.
Sections 57A-57D and related provisions (Conversion of State tenures to State freehold) , inserted: "s 57A ins 2023 No. 30 s 117", "s 57B ins 2023 No. 30 s 117", "s 57C ins 2023 No. 30 s 117", "s 57D ins 2023 No. 30 s 117" and related explanatory notes. These sections define Brisbane Casino lease land, Queen’s Park reserve land, Queen’s Wharf precinct lease land and prescribe conversion to State freehold for specified parcels and the registration consequences. The 2023 insertion creates a discrete conversion division.
Section 42 definitions , further amended: "s 42 def Queen’s Wharf deed amd 2023 No. 30 s 116(1)" and "s 42 def Queen’s Wharf tenure amd 2023 No. 30 s 116(2)". These update definitional language to accommodate the new tenure concepts.
Section 59 (Non-application of s 142 of the Property Law Act 2023) , amended: "s 59 amd 2023 No. 27 s 289 sch 3". That cross‑reference aligns Queen’s Wharf leases with the new Property Law Act provisions.
Other textual annotations
Multiple sections contain marginal notes like "s 16 Definitions for chapter" and subordinate annotations repeating the legislative text. These show the Act authoritatively imports the Corporations Act terminology (s 16) and provides interpretative rules for trusts (s 19). Amendment markers indicate the Act has been adapted at specific points to respond to land conversion and regulatory coherence with newer Acts.
How these amendments change the operation
The 2018 amendments appear to have inserted or refined the Queen’s Wharf area and declaration mechanics in pt 5. The 2023 amendments are material for land title and tenure: they insert a conversion pathway to State freehold for specific lots connected to the Brisbane Casino and Queen’s Wharf precinct, update definitions, and alter how the Land Act applies (ss 57A-57D). The 2023 changes therefore introduced significant land‑tenure mechanics beyond the earlier grant/lease declaration route.
Limitations of the supplied amendment record
The supplied text includes only the amendment footnotes embedded in the statute text. There may have been other amendments not reflected in these notes. For an exhaustive legislative history, practitioners must consult the official reprint history and the Queensland legislation register to obtain commencement dates for each amending provision, the text of the amending Acts, transitional provisions, and the current consolidated form.
Commencement
Section 2 states the Act commences on a day fixed by proclamation. That means parts of the Act may have come into force at different times as proclaimed, and practitioners must check commencement proclamations to determine when specific provisions (including later amendments) became operative.
In sum, the Act has been amended at least in 2018 and 2023 in the respects recorded in the text: addition of Queen’s Wharf area definitions and declaration mechanics, updates to Land Act interactions and conversion provisions, and alignment with the new Property Law Act and Land Regulation conditions.
Litigation history
The text supplied does not include or cite any judicial decisions, and it does not list any litigation concerning the Act. It names no cases. Where the Act cross‑refers to other instruments or the Control Act, it does not record any judicial interpretation or case law.
Practitioners seeking litigation history or judicial interpretation should take these steps:
Search Queensland courts and tribunal databases for cases citing the Queen’s Wharf Brisbane Act 2016 or specific sections (eg ss 20-23, ss 30-37, ss 43-47, ss 57D).
Review administrative decisions and the Land Court for any Acquisition of Land Act claims connected to Queen’s Wharf (s 47(2)-(3)). The Act prescribes a Land Court process for compensation claims when interests end on registration (s 47(3)(c)) which may generate caselaw on valuation and process.
Check any decisions that interpret the Control Act suitability process as it is applied under this Act (ss 24, 32).
Review any judicial consideration of s 63 (declaratory that amounts payable to the State are not penalties) should a party have contested the State’s retention of an amount on termination of a development agreement.
Because no cases are named in the source text, every citation of case law must be sourced externally. The Act’s enforcement pathways, evidential burden shifts (s 40(3)) and the State’s power to direct disposals (ss 34, 37) are areas where judicial review or merits litigation could arise; but whether such litigation exists is not shown in the provided statutory text.
Gotchas
This Act contains drafting features and procedural traps that may catch financiers, trustees, acquirers, and lessees who do not map corporate and trust holdings precisely to the Act’s definitions. The following are concrete risks and technical pitfalls grounded in specific sections.
Split treatment of bodies corporate and trusts
The Act requires separate compliance for voting power in a body corporate and voting power in a trust of which the body corporate is trustee (s 16, last paragraphs). Under s 16, voting power and relevant interest in a relevant entity that is a body corporate exclude voting power in a trust of which that body corporate is trustee. Practically, a corporate group might think it has a single exposure measure, but s 16 requires separate calculations for structures where the corporate is trustee. Failure to treat trustee‑held interests separately risks unapproved accumulation of effective control.
Associates aggregation and same‑parcel counting
Sections 21(4) and 22(4) aggregate associates’ holdings in counting non‑voting interests and convertible securities. The example in s 21(4) shows that where associates hold different tranches of the class their holdings aggregate; but if the associate holds the same listed holding as the person, the effective relevant interest is not double‑counted. This aggregation rule can create unexpected breaches where holdings are spread across affiliates and advisers; group‑level monitoring is therefore essential.
Fast disclosure windows
The Act imposes very short windows for disclosure: a person must supply detailed disclosure to a relevant entity within 2 business days after receiving a disclosure notice (s 40(1)). For voting power in entities outside s 27(2) that rises above 10% but is not more than 20%, notice to the relevant entity must be given within 5 business days (s 28(1)), and the entity must notify the Minister within 10 business days of becoming aware (s 28(2)-(3)). These compressed timeframes can be difficult to meet for complex holdings or cross‑border holdings where clearing and custodian information flow is slower.
Evidential burden on defendants
Section 40(3) places an evidential burden on the defendant to show the extent to which matters were not known for the purposes of s 40(2) (the limitation of disclosure to what is known). This is not a full legal burden to prove absence of knowledge but an evidential burden, which can still complicate defence strategies in administrative or penalty proceedings. Records and contemporaneous evidence of information flows are therefore critical.
Wide ministerial discretion and subordinate legislation
The Minister may declare an entity to be a relevant entity if, in the Minister’s opinion, the entity can influence ownership, management or operations of another relevant entity, or is a subsidiary or otherwise controlled or significantly influenced by prescribed persons (s 17(3)). That is an opinion‑based test, made by subordinate legislation, and could bring entities within scope on a discretionary basis. The Minister’s notice is subordinate legislation (s 17(5)), and that means third parties should watch the notices register for changes to the roster of regulated entities.
Approvals and suitability tied to Control Act investigations
Approvals are conditional on suitability found on the basis of a Control Act investigation (s 24). Parties unfamiliar with the Control Act’s investigative scope may face intrusive inquiries, and the Act allows the Governor in Council or Minister to require a person to satisfy the Governor in Council of suitability (s 32). The Act does not itself define the suitability criteria but imports them via the Control Act references; that linkage may extend the scope of review beyond ordinary corporate fit‑and‑proper tests.
Potential for expedited directions in alleged integrity jeopardy
Section 33 authorises the Minister to recommend a direction under s 34 without giving a show‑cause notice where integrity of the casino operation may be jeopardised or the public interest adversely affected materially. That permits an expedited pathway to directions without the normal show‑cause period; a recipient could face time‑compressed remedial obligations where the Minister so finds.
Disposal/removal of interests within tight timeframes and penalties
Directions to remedy non‑compliance or to dispose of holdings usually impose compliance as soon as reasonably practicable but no later than two months (ss 34(2) and 37(2)). Failure to comply is a maximum 200 penalty units (ss 34(4), 37(5)). For complex dispositions involving cross‑jurisdictional approvals, that two‑month ceiling can be constraining.
Land registration consequences
Registration of a Queen’s Wharf tenure is the operative event that ends prior interests (s 46(2)-(6)). If a person's interest ends on registration they have a compensable right under the Acquisition of Land Act, but that requires using the Acquisition of Land Act process and potentially the Land Court (s 47). Holders of leases, reserves and trust deeds must therefore prepare for the possibility that registration may unilaterally end their rights and trigger a compensation claim process rather than leaving them with incumbent tenure protection.
Sublease and trust registration exceptions
The Act disapplies the Land Act Minister’s approval requirement for subleases of Queen’s Wharf headlease land and removes certain Land Act requirements, permitting a person to hold an interest in trust even if the Land Act’s registration requirement is not yet met (ss 49-50). That relaxes some formalities but could create uncertainty for mortgagees and registrars about priority and enforceability until registration is completed.
Declaratory override of penalties doctrine
Section 63 declares that amounts the State is entitled to keep under certain agreements are not penalties at law. That alters common law penalty doctrine in the context of State development agreements and can affect dispute resolution or challenge strategies.
Exemptions and regulations
Regulations may exempt people or classes from the approval requirements (s 29) and may authorise reporting beyond the enumeration in s 27. That means delegated instruments can materially alter who must comply and what must be reported; parties should monitor subordinate legislation as part of compliance.
In short, the principal "gotchas" are the Act’s precise definitions (Corporations Act import and trust treatment), aggregation rules for associates, short compliance windows, opinion‑based ministerial roster changes, cross‑references to the Control Act for suitability, and fast enforcement paths (including disposal directions and two‑month deadlines). These are concrete operational risks spelt out in the statutory text.
How to comply
This section gives a practical checklist and sequence of actions for entities, financiers, trustees and advisers to bring holdings and land dealings into compliance with the Act, grounded in the relevant section citations.
Identify whether you are a relevant entity or connected to one (s 17)
Review the casino agreement schedule 3 (column 1 and 2) and confirm whether your entity is listed. If not listed, monitor for any Ministerial notices declaring additional relevant entities (s 17(1)-(3)). If your entity is a trustee of a trust that is a relevant entity, note that trustees and the trust may be treated as separate relevant entities (s 17(1), s 19). Record and maintain registers reflecting which of your group entities are relevant entities.
Map holdings and applicable definitions (ss 16-19)
Apply the Corporations Act meanings for "associate", "relevant interest", "voting power", "voting interest", "non‑voting interest" and convertible securities as the Act imports those definitions (s 16, s 18). For trusts, apply the Act’s rules treating trusts as managed investment schemes for the purposes of voting and non‑voting interest definitions and ensure each trustee understands obligations imposed on them (s 19). Maintain a holdings database that separately calculates voting power in corporate entities and voting power in trust vehicles where a corporate is a trustee (s 16).
Monitor thresholds and secure approvals where required (ss 20-23, s 24)
For the licensee, IR Holdco, trustees of the IR Holding/Operating Trusts and the trusts themselves, do not increase voting power without prior approval where the bands apply (s 20(2)). For non‑voting interests and convertible securities in those entities, check the >10% and >20% bands and seek Governor in Council approval where required (ss 21-22). For other relevant entities, ensure voting power does not exceed 20% without Governor in Council approval (s 23). Plan approval pathways early: Minister approval is required for the >5%-10% band in s 20; Governor in Council approval is required for other thresholds (s 20(3)).
Prepare for suitability assessment under the Control Act (s 24, s 32)
Expect suitability investigations to be grounded in the Control Act. Compile governance, probity and fit‑and‑proper documentation for owners and key personnel. Where the Minister requires satisfaction of the Governor in Council under Control Act s 30, use the opportunity to present comprehensive evidence because if the Governor in Council is satisfied the person is suitable they are taken to have obtained the required approval (s 32(3)).
Manage disclosure windows and notice obligations (ss 27-28, ss 39-40)
For relevant entities in s 27(2) class (licensee, IR Holdco, trustees, IR trusts), anticipate regulations requiring reporting and make data collection systems available (s 27). For other relevant entities, if voting power rises above 10% but is not more than 20%, deliver written notice in approved form to the relevant entity within 5 business days (s 28(1)); the relevant entity must notify the Minister within 10 business days (s 28(2)-(3)). Respond to any disclosure notice from a relevant entity within 2 business days with full details as prescribed in s 40, and ensure your records identify all associates and persons who have given instructions. Retain contemporaneous evidence of what was known to meet the evidential burden under s 40(3).
Implement ongoing compliance and affiliate aggregation controls (s 21(4), s 22(4))
Because the Act aggregates associates’ holdings for non‑voting interests and convertible securities (ss 21(4), 22(4)), implement group‑level monitoring and internal approvals for affiliates, nominee accounts and custodial holdings. Capture external adviser instructions that could create an obligation under s 40(c) to name persons who have given instructions.
Prepare for Ministerial notices, subordinate legislation and exemptions (ss 17, 27, 29)
Subscribe to the Queensland legislation and subordinate instruments registers to capture Ministerial notices declaring entities relevant or not relevant (s 17(5)-(6)). Track and review any regulations issued under s 27 or s 29 that impose additional reporting obligations or exemptions.
If served with a show‑cause notice, mount a timely response (ss 30-31)
A show‑cause notice must afford at least 21 days for response (s 30(4)). Prepare written representations in that window. If the Minister requires you to satisfy the Governor in Council of suitability under the Control Act (s 32(2)), assemble comprehensive probity evidence because success converts to an effective retrospective approval (s 32(3)).
For land interests potentially affected by Queen’s Wharf declarations (ss 43-47, ss 57A-57D)
If you hold an interest in land within the Queen’s Wharf area, ascertain whether the Minister has declared that land in a freehold or leasehold declaration under s 43. Note that registration of a Queen’s Wharf tenure cancels or ends prior interests (s 46) and that compensation is available only by following the Acquisition of Land Act procedure (s 47). For parcels specifically identified in the conversion division (ss 57A-57D), follow the prescribed conversion process and note that registered interests such as the Brisbane Casino term lease and heritage entries continue in effect post‑registration (s 57D(5)-(6)).
For subleasing and licences on Queen’s Wharf headlease land (ss 49-56)
Where you are dealing with sublease, transfer or amendment of a sublease, note that the Land Act Minister’s approval is not required for these dealings in the Queen’s Wharf headlease context (s 49(2)). However, indemnity and insurance conditions remain mandatory for subleases and licences (s 54). Ensure trust holdings in subleases can be evidenced even if register entries are pending (s 50). If you intend to include holding over terms, s 55 states such clauses have effect even if inconsistent with the Land Act.
Document and align contracts with the Act’s declaratory provisions (s 63)
Where the State is a party to development agreements in the Queen’s Wharf area, note that the Act validates contractual terms allowing the State to retain amounts on termination as not penalties (s 63). Ensure agreements and termination clauses are drafted with that provision in mind and that counterparts understand the statutory backing.
Prepare for potential directions and disposal orders (ss 34, 37)
If faced with a Governor in Council direction to remediate or dispose of interests, act promptly to comply within the statutory periods (generally up to two months, s 34(2), s 37(2)). Having transactional counterparts and pre‑agreed disposition pathways (transfer agents, pre‑nominated buyers, escrow mechanics) can reduce the difficulty of complying with the disposal direction within the statutory window.
Preserve and manage records to meet evidential burdens
Because the Act puts evidential weight on "what is known" and shifts evidential burdens (s 40), retain contemporaneous registers, instructions, custodian statements, and email trails showing knowledge and instruction dates. These records will be the primary defence in any disclosure or penalty proceedings.
Engage early with counsel and probity advisers
Given the Act’s interplay with the Control Act suitability investigations and the Minister/Governor in Council discretion, early legal and probity engagement is recommended for any proposed acquisition approaching thresholds, group reorganisations, trust arrangements or complex subleases.
Monitor delegated instruments and government notices
The Act relies on regulations and subordinate legislation for exemptions, forms and declarations (ss 17(5), 27, 29, 43(8)). Compliance is therefore an ongoing obligation to watch legislative and regulatory updates.
This checklist is procedural and grounded in the Act’s text. It does not cover every fact pattern; practitioners should map each corporate or trust structure into the Act’s definitions, confirm the schedule 3 list in the casino agreement, and cross‑check the Corporations Act, Control Act and Land Act provisions referenced by the Queen’s Wharf Act.
The dictionary in schedule 2 defines particular words used in this Act.
sec.7 References to this Act and provisions
sec.7 References to this Act and provisions
Unless the context otherwise requires, a reference to this Act, or a provision of this Act, includes a reference to the casino agreement, or a provision of the agreement.
Under section 10 , the casino agreement has effect as if it were a law of the State.
sec.8 Different drafting practice not to affect meaning
sec.8 Different drafting practice not to affect meaning
This section applies if—
a provision of the casino agreement expresses an idea in particular words; and
another provision of this Act appears to express the same idea in different words for the purpose of giving effect to the agreement.
The ideas are taken not to be different merely because different words are used.
(sec.8-ssec.1) This section applies if— a provision of the casino agreement expresses an idea in particular words; and another provision of this Act appears to express the same idea in different words for the purpose of giving effect to the agreement.
(sec.8-ssec.2) The ideas are taken not to be different merely because different words are used.
(a) a provision of the casino agreement expresses an idea in particular words; and
(b) another provision of this Act appears to express the same idea in different words for the purpose of giving effect to the agreement.
sec.9 Meaning of casino agreement
sec.9 Meaning of casino agreement
The casino agreement is the agreement ratified under section 10 , as amended from time to time under section 11 .
ch.4-pt.1 Preliminary
Preliminary
sec.16 Definitions for chapter
sec.16 Definitions for chapter
In this chapter—
associate , of a person in relation to a relevant entity, has the meaning given under the Corporations Act , sections 12 and 16 (1) .
convertible securities , in a relevant entity, means securities in any class that are convertible into interests in the entity.
interest , in a relevant entity, means a voting interest or non-voting interest in the entity.
managed investment scheme see the Corporations Act , section 9 .
non-voting interest , in a relevant entity, means—
if the entity is a trust—an interest in the trust, other than a voting interest, within the meaning of the Corporations Act as if the trust were a managed investment scheme; or
In relation to trusts, see also section 19 .
otherwise—a non-voting share within the meaning of the Corporations Act .
relevant entity see section 17 .
relevant interest , in interests or convertible securities in a relevant entity, see section 18 .
required approval means prior written approval given under the provision in which the reference appears.
security means—
a security mentioned in the Corporations Act , section 92 (3) ; or
an interest in a managed investment scheme, other than a registered scheme within the meaning of the Corporations Act ; or
An interest in a registered scheme is a security mentioned in paragraph (a) .
an interest in a trust that, but for the operation of section 19 , would not be a managed investment scheme because of paragraph (e) of the definition managed investment scheme under the Corporations Act , section 9 .
voting interest , in a relevant entity, means—
if the entity is a trust—a voting interest within the meaning of the Corporations Act as if the trust were a managed investment scheme; or
In relation to trusts, see also section 19 .
otherwise—a voting share within the meaning of the Corporations Act .
voting power , of a person in a relevant entity, has the meaning given under the Corporations Act , section 610 .
A person’s voting power in a relevant entity that is a body corporate does not include voting power in a relevant entity that is a trust of which the body corporate is a trustee.
See also section 19 in relation to trusts.
Under part 2 , division 1 , a person must comply with the approval requirements separately in relation to—
voting power in a relevant entity that is a body corporate; and
voting power in a relevant entity that is a trust of which the body corporate is a trustee.
(a) if the entity is a trust—an interest in the trust, other than a voting interest, within the meaning of the Corporations Act as if the trust were a managed investment scheme; or Note— In relation to trusts, see also section 19 .
(b) otherwise—a non-voting share within the meaning of the Corporations Act .
(a) a security mentioned in the Corporations Act , section 92 (3) ; or
(b) an interest in a managed investment scheme, other than a registered scheme within the meaning of the Corporations Act ; or Note— An interest in a registered scheme is a security mentioned in paragraph (a) .
(c) an interest in a trust that, but for the operation of section 19 , would not be a managed investment scheme because of paragraph (e) of the definition managed investment scheme under the Corporations Act , section 9 .
(a) if the entity is a trust—a voting interest within the meaning of the Corporations Act as if the trust were a managed investment scheme; or Note— In relation to trusts, see also section 19 .
(b) otherwise—a voting share within the meaning of the Corporations Act .
1 A person’s voting power in a relevant entity that is a body corporate does not include voting power in a relevant entity that is a trust of which the body corporate is a trustee.
2 See also section 19 in relation to trusts.
3 Under part 2 , division 1 , a person must comply with the approval requirements separately in relation to— (a) voting power in a relevant entity that is a body corporate; and (b) voting power in a relevant entity that is a trust of which the body corporate is a trustee.
(a) voting power in a relevant entity that is a body corporate; and
(b) voting power in a relevant entity that is a trust of which the body corporate is a trustee.
(a) voting power in a relevant entity that is a body corporate; and
(b) voting power in a relevant entity that is a trust of which the body corporate is a trustee.
sec.17 Meaning of relevant entity
sec.17 Meaning of relevant entity
Each of the following entities is a relevant entity —
an entity listed in the casino agreement, schedule 3 , column 1 or 2;
an entity that becomes a party to the casino agreement under chapter 3 ;
an entity declared by the Minister, by notice, to be a relevant entity.
A trust, and a trustee of the trust, may be separate relevant entities. See also section 19 in relation to trusts.
However, relevant entity does not include—
an entity that stops being a party to the casino agreement under chapter 3 ; or
an entity declared by the Minister, by notice, not to be a relevant entity.
The Minister may declare an entity to be a relevant entity under subsection (1) (c) only if, in the Minister’s opinion—
the entity can influence the ownership, management or operations of another relevant entity in relation to the Queen’s Wharf complex or the Queen’s Wharf casino; or
the entity is a subsidiary of, or is otherwise controlled or significantly influenced by—
the licensee or IR Holdco; or
another relevant entity that is a trustee of the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust.
The Minister may declare an entity not to be a relevant entity under subsection (2) (b) only if, in the Minister’s opinion—
the entity can not influence the ownership, management or operations of another relevant entity in relation to the Queen’s Wharf complex or the Queen’s Wharf casino; and
the entity is not a subsidiary of, or otherwise controlled or significantly influenced by—
the licensee or IR Holdco; or
another relevant entity that is a trustee of the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust.
A notice under subsection (1) (c) or (2) (b) is subordinate legislation.
The Minister must give a copy of a notice under subsection (1) (c) or (2) (b) to the entity to which the declaration relates.
(sec.17-ssec.1) Each of the following entities is a relevant entity — an entity listed in the casino agreement, schedule 3 , column 1 or 2; an entity that becomes a party to the casino agreement under chapter 3 ; an entity declared by the Minister, by notice, to be a relevant entity. A trust, and a trustee of the trust, may be separate relevant entities. See also section 19 in relation to trusts.
(sec.17-ssec.2) However, relevant entity does not include— an entity that stops being a party to the casino agreement under chapter 3 ; or an entity declared by the Minister, by notice, not to be a relevant entity.
(sec.17-ssec.3) The Minister may declare an entity to be a relevant entity under subsection (1) (c) only if, in the Minister’s opinion— the entity can influence the ownership, management or operations of another relevant entity in relation to the Queen’s Wharf complex or the Queen’s Wharf casino; or the entity is a subsidiary of, or is otherwise controlled or significantly influenced by— the licensee or IR Holdco; or another relevant entity that is a trustee of the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust.
(sec.17-ssec.4) The Minister may declare an entity not to be a relevant entity under subsection (2) (b) only if, in the Minister’s opinion— the entity can not influence the ownership, management or operations of another relevant entity in relation to the Queen’s Wharf complex or the Queen’s Wharf casino; and the entity is not a subsidiary of, or otherwise controlled or significantly influenced by— the licensee or IR Holdco; or another relevant entity that is a trustee of the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust.
(sec.17-ssec.5) A notice under subsection (1) (c) or (2) (b) is subordinate legislation.
(sec.17-ssec.6) The Minister must give a copy of a notice under subsection (1) (c) or (2) (b) to the entity to which the declaration relates.
(a) an entity listed in the casino agreement, schedule 3 , column 1 or 2;
(b) an entity that becomes a party to the casino agreement under chapter 3 ;
(c) an entity declared by the Minister, by notice, to be a relevant entity.
(a) an entity that stops being a party to the casino agreement under chapter 3 ; or
(b) an entity declared by the Minister, by notice, not to be a relevant entity.
(a) the entity can influence the ownership, management or operations of another relevant entity in relation to the Queen’s Wharf complex or the Queen’s Wharf casino; or
(b) the entity is a subsidiary of, or is otherwise controlled or significantly influenced by— (i) the licensee or IR Holdco; or (ii) another relevant entity that is a trustee of the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust.
(i) the licensee or IR Holdco; or
(ii) another relevant entity that is a trustee of the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust.
(i) the licensee or IR Holdco; or
(ii) another relevant entity that is a trustee of the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust.
(a) the entity can not influence the ownership, management or operations of another relevant entity in relation to the Queen’s Wharf complex or the Queen’s Wharf casino; and
(b) the entity is not a subsidiary of, or otherwise controlled or significantly influenced by— (i) the licensee or IR Holdco; or (ii) another relevant entity that is a trustee of the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust.
(i) the licensee or IR Holdco; or
(ii) another relevant entity that is a trustee of the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust.
(i) the licensee or IR Holdco; or
(ii) another relevant entity that is a trustee of the IR Holding Trust or IR Operating Trust.
sec.18 Meaning of relevant interest
sec.18 Meaning of relevant interest
A person’s relevant interest, in interests or convertible securities in a relevant entity, has the meaning given under the Corporations Act .
If a relevant entity is a body corporate, a person’s relevant interest in interests or convertible securities in the entity does not include a relevant interest in interests or convertible securities in a trust of which the entity is a trustee.
Under part 2 , division 1 , a person must comply with the approval requirements separately in relation to—
interests or convertible securities in a relevant entity that is a body corporate; and
interests or convertible securities in a relevant entity that is a trust of which the body corporate is a trustee.
For subsection (1) , interests in a relevant entity that is a trust are taken to be securities.
(sec.18-ssec.1) A person’s relevant interest, in interests or convertible securities in a relevant entity, has the meaning given under the Corporations Act . If a relevant entity is a body corporate, a person’s relevant interest in interests or convertible securities in the entity does not include a relevant interest in interests or convertible securities in a trust of which the entity is a trustee. Under part 2 , division 1 , a person must comply with the approval requirements separately in relation to— interests or convertible securities in a relevant entity that is a body corporate; and interests or convertible securities in a relevant entity that is a trust of which the body corporate is a trustee.
(sec.18-ssec.2) For subsection (1) , interests in a relevant entity that is a trust are taken to be securities.
1 If a relevant entity is a body corporate, a p
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