Queensland residents draws to the attention of the House that the Gold Coast already has the second highest number of poker machines in any Queensland local government area, three times more than in Victoria and 40% higher than in Sydney. The Gold Coast deserves real and sustainable tourism outcomes which are unique and of high quality. Another casino on the Gold Coast will take existing local trade from pubs, clubs and the existing casino. This, according to Clubs Queensland, will force around 30 local community clubs to close. It will further impact over 330 community clubs in the southeast corner, create widespread job losses and result in a major decline to the community funding that is provided by clubs. Their funding puts lifesavers on our beaches and supports veterans, schools, and sports and community groups. Community clubs are not-for-profit and deliver important and highly valued services in their surrounding communities and to visitors to their region. The Gold Coast does not want or need another casino.

Your petitioners, therefore, request the House to oppose the granting of a second casino licence on the Gold Coast.