The NSW Independent Casino Commission has notified The Star that its licence suspension will remain in place and the NICC-appointed Manager Nick Weeks will continue to have oversight of casino operations until at least 30 September 2025.
At that time, the NICC will reassess The Star’s suitability to regain its casino licence.
Weeks’ role was due to expire on 31 March and the NICC sought submissions from both him and The Star in relation to The Star’s suitability to hold a casino license in NSW.
In its submissions The Star accepted that Weeks should remain in place for a further six months while remediation continues, and casino group implements measures to secure its finances.
NICC Chief Commissioner Philip Crawford said that the submissions demonstrated steady improvements in The Star’s remediation but uncertainty around The Star’s financial situation meant that progress was slow, and its licence suspension should remain in effect.
“We welcome progress in The Star’s remediation efforts and are confident the company is moving in the right direction with its remediation plans,” Crawford said.
“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.”
The extension of Weeks’ role as Manager will allow The Star to operate gaming facilities during the continued period of its licence suspension.
The Star Chief executive Steve McCann entered negotiations with potential investors in early March. The current front runner, Salter Brothers, has been given until the beginning of April to complete due diligence and deliver a $750 million rescue package for The Star.
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