The Queensland Government has re-appointed Bruce Barbour – a former member of the NSW Casino Control Authority – as Chairperson, and Jen O’Farrell as CEO of the state’s Crime and Corruption Commission (CCC).
Authorities from the Australian state underscored that the decision underscores the government’s commitment to bolstering the CCC’s reporting powers following recent landmark legislation aimed at restoring integrity within the state.
Bruce Barbour’s re-appointment extends his tenure until July 1st, 2028, after a three-year term as Chair. Before this role, he served as an Ordinary Commissioner from May 2021 to January 2022 and acted as Chair in early 2022. Notably, Barbour also held the position of NSW Ombudsman for 15 years and was a member of the NSW Casino Control Authority.
Jen O’Farrell has also been re-appointed for another three years as CEO of the CCC, a position she has held since August 2018 in a new term that will last until August 23rd, 2028.
O’Farrell’s background includes roles as Executive Director of the Queensland Greyhound Racing Industry Commission of Inquiry, General Manager and Director of Legal Services at the Department of Transport and Main Roads, and experience as a solicitor.
“I am pleased to provide this key integrity agency with continued stability through these reappointments,” Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Integrity, Deb Frecklington stated. “Mr. Barbour has served with distinction, demonstrating an independent and apolitical approach in his invaluable role.”
The Attorney-General emphasized the importance of the CCC as Queensland’s peak anti-corruption agency, highlighting the necessity for thorough investigations into allegations of corruption.
Queensland has been actively reviewing and taking action against casino operators in recent years.
One of the most significant investigations involved The Star Entertainment Group, which faced scrutiny over its governance and operational practices, with the Queensland Government deeming The Star unsuitable to hold a casino license and initiating disciplinary measures in response to findings from the Gotterson Review.
The state’s government has granted an additional six-month extension for The Star Gold Coast’s casino license suspension, deferring the decision until September 30th, 2025.
