The Star Sydney casino license suspension extended to March 2026, regulators keep venue under independent oversight

The Star Sydney will remain without a casino license until at least March 31, 2026, after New South Wales’ Independent Casino Commission (NICC) decided the company had not yet demonstrated sufficient progress to regain control of its operations.

The ruling extends a turbulent period for The Star Entertainment Group, which in August reported an unaudited net loss of AU$472 million ($312 million) for the 2025 financial year. Heavy compliance costs, tighter regulatory conditions, and shrinking market share have weighed on its balance sheet, with lenders raising concerns over debt covenants and delays in finalising audited accounts.

Chief Executive and Managing Director Steve McCann responded to the commission’s decision by reaffirming the group’s commitment to reform. “We acknowledge that there is more work to do, but we remain committed to delivering on our Remediation Plan to support the safe and compliant operation of our business,” he said.

McCann added that the company intends to maintain constructive engagement with regulators, the government, and the appointed manager.

The Star’s license was first suspended in 2022 following the Bell Inquiry, which found the casino had facilitated money laundering through junket operations and misled authorities about its financial practices. A second inquiry last year reported that leadership failures and cultural problems persisted, leaving regulators unconvinced that meaningful reform had taken hold.

As part of the continued suspension, Nicholas Weeks will remain in charge of the Pyrmont property. Weeks, appointed in October 2022, had been due to finish his term at the end of September this year.

The NICC has requested ministerial approval to extend Weeks' authority under the Casino Control Regulation 2019 until March 31, 2026, unless the regulator chooses to end his appointment earlier.

The commission said it had reviewed submissions from both the company and Weeks in late August and early September before concluding the license suspension must stay in place. While noting remedial work is underway, the NICC stressed that The Star must demonstrate lasting cultural and operational improvements before its license can be restored.

Until then, the Pyrmont casino will continue to operate under direct external supervision as the company works to prove its suitability as a license holder.