Key points:
- The Star’s NSW casino licence remains suspended until at least 30 September 2025
- Independent Manager Nick Weeks will continue to oversee operations during remediation
- Financial instability remains a concern despite progress on compliance improvements
The New South Wales Independent Casino Commission (NICC) has confirmed that The Star Entertainment Group’s Sydney casino licence will remain suspended for at least another six months, with oversight by the NICC-appointed independent manager, Nick Weeks, continuing through to 30 September 2025.
The decision follows a review of submissions from both The Star and Mr Weeks regarding the company’s suitability to regain its licence.
The Star agreed that the manager should remain in place while it continues its remediation process and works to stabilise its financial position.
NICC Chief Commissioner Philip Crawford commented: “We welcome progress in The Star’s remediation efforts and are confident the company is moving in the right direction with its remediation plans. The next six months is a critical phase for The Star as it will need to show further progress with its remediation activities whilst also stabilising its finances.”
Good to know: The extension will allow The Star to continue operating its gaming facilities under the manager’s supervision, while its licence technically remains suspended
The announcement comes just weeks after The Star secured a AU$53m (US$33.4m) emergency funding package by transferring its Brisbane casino operations to a Hong Kong-based investor group led by Far East Consortium International and Chow Tai Fook Enterprises.
The transaction, finalised in early March, was seen as a necessary step to avoid potential administration and to redirect funds toward debt management and regulatory compliance.
The NICC first suspended The Star’s Sydney casino licence in 2022 following findings of serious compliance failings. The operator has since undergone leadership changes and implemented internal reforms, but ongoing financial instability remains a barrier to full regulatory reinstatement.
