The idea of casino expansion in Australia’s Gold Coast region has been the subject of debate and controversy over the years. However, the idea never seems to make any movement, forward or backward. Now, Queensland wants to know if there is interest in a second casino resort in the area and is giving casino operators the chance to weigh in.

Gaming and hospitality operators can offer their opinion on the matter until April. The government introduced an expression-of-interest process on Tuesday to allow developers to present their interest on constructing and operating a second casino resort alongside the Star Gold Coast, located in the Broadbeach suburb.

A “world-wide search” is now being conducted, according to Australian Minister for Innovation and Tourism Industry Development Kate Jones. The government is looking for the best proposal that would create a boost for the “tourism and entertainment” offering of the Gold Coast.

The development would be part of a plan by Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk to create a Global Tourism Hub (GTH), similar to that seen in the integrated resorts of MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions) locations. The hub is expected to include, in addition to casino resorts, entertainment venues, convention facilities, retail stores, luxury hotels and high-end food and beverage venues.