A change of government in Queensland could delay plans to build an $8 billion mega-resort and casino in Cairns.

Aquis, to be built at Yorkey’s Knob, north of Cairns, would include 7500 hotel rooms, a convention and exhibition centre, two casinos, a golf course and an artificial lake and lagoon.

Developer Tony Fung, a Hong-Kong based businessman, has said he’ll only push forward with the project if it’s granted a casino licence.

The Liberal National Party had offered Aquis a licence under the Integrated Resort Development process if it met a number of requirements.

However, the party could lose power following last week’s shock election results, with both the LNP and Labor now hopeful of forming a minority government.

The good news for Mr Fung is that both parties have thrown their support behind Aquis, which developers say would create 20,000 jobs in the region.

A spokesman for Aquis said they were keen to speak to relevant ministers once a new government had been formed.

“We’ve got to meet with them and get their view on the process,” he told AAP on Wednesday.

“Mr Fung remains committed to the project and looks forward to meeting with the new government when its formed.”

Asked whether a change of government may cause delays, he said: “We don’t know, it’s still uncertain.”

The project’s environmental impact statement was approved last year, but developers still need permission from local council and possibly federal approval.

This process will likely get under way once there is certainty around the granting of a casino licence.

Those opposed to the resort are concerned about how the six-star gaming development would increase problem gambling and harm the environment.

Developers hope to begin construction this year and the first stage of the resort will open in 2019 if approved.

 

By Cleo Fraser