ASF project would bring in USD 544M a year to Queensland economy

The Sunday Mail has obtained figures by independent property advisory MacroPlan Dimasi, which shows the $3 billion ASF Consortium project would generate $710 million for the economy and attract an extra 2.1 million visitor nights each year.

That is on top of thousands of construction jobs set to be generated if the project gets the green light from the State Government.

Earmarked for land near Sea World, the project was last year born from the ashes of the failed Wavebreak Island cruise ship terminal and casino resort.

The ASF proposal is now open to public consultation and with State Government approval, construction could start after the Commonwealth Games next year.

Without a cruise ship component, the proposal is expected to satisfy the environmental conditions that its predecessor did not.

The integrated resort could be fully operational by the end of 2021, creating a massive money spinner for the Gold Coast.

With up to five high-rise towers including a casino, resorts, hotels and entertainment precincts, the development would rival Jupiters at Broadbeach, which is in the midst of its own major expansion.

The ASF plan also includes scope for a waterfront amphitheatre with hi-tech sound, light and hologram performances.

As an example of the huge impact it could have on the Gold Coast, the 9100 fulltime positions at the ASF integrated resort would be enough to halve the city’s jobless rate.

ASF director Louis Chien said the group was committed to delivering a project with a lasting legacy.

“This project is not your standard development as it provides significant immediate and ongoing investment and benefits for the region,” he said.

“It delivers 13,000 jobs, injects over $700 million in to the economy and it will spearhead future tourism growth for Queensland.

“It’s a game-changer not only for the Gold Coast, but for Queensland, so now is the time for the Gold Coast to speak up and ensure they secure the prosperity of the community and future generations.”

Despite the absence of a contentious cruise ship terminal, the project has still drawn criticism from environmental groups but Mr Chien backed it to measure up to community standards.

“ASF encourages the Gold Coast community to find out the facts and have their say through the community consultation process,” he said.