Star Entertainment casino future under threat

The future of Star Entertainment's major casino in Sydney is jeopardised after a second critical report revealed that the venue has not improved its corporate culture. The findings from the NSW Independent Casino Commission (NICC) highlighted the company's failure to address unethical employee conduct and the infiltration of criminal activity within its operations.

An earlier report in 2022 determined that the Pyrmont location was ineligible for a gaming licence due to evidence of extensive fraud. Following an investigation by the state's Casino Commission, concerns were raised about Star's lack of action to rectify these issues. A special investigator launched a second inquiry in February 2024 to assess whether Star had implemented the necessary "deep structural changes."

However, NICC Chief Commissioner Philip Crawford stated that minimal progress has been made. "The company has not moved swiftly enough to resolve its governance and cultural problems," Crawford remarked.

It's worth noting that Star had previously replaced its entire board and most of its management in response to the investigation into its conduct in New South Wales and Queensland. NSW Gaming Minister David Harris emphasised the government's commitment to maintaining a safe and responsible casino industry, saying, "We await the outcome of the NICC's review of the report and will consider the implications of the commission's decision once it is announced." As of now, Star Entertainment Group has not issued a statement regarding the situation.