The Star Sydney Casino Licence Suspension Extended for Another Six Months

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. Oversight by NICC-appointed independent manager Nick Weeks will continue until 30 September 2025.

The decision follows a review of submissions from both The Star and Nick Weeks regarding the company’s suitability to regain its licence. The Star has agreed that the independent manager should remain in place while it continues its remediation process and works to stabilise its financial position.

NICC Chief Commissioner Philip Crawford stated, “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.”

This announcement comes shortly after The Star secured a AU$53 million (US$33.4 million) 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. Finalised in early March, the transaction was deemed a necessary move to prevent potential administration and to redirect funds toward debt management and regulatory compliance.

The NICC initially suspended The Star’s Sydney casino licence in 2022 following findings of significant compliance failures. Since then, the operator has undergone leadership changes and implemented internal reforms. However, its ongoing financial instability continues to be a barrier to full regulatory reinstatement.

By fLEXI tEAM