Journal · 1 November 2026
A casino under a state-appointed manager: what a guest should know
You may read that The Star's casino licence is suspended. That is true, and it has been since 2022. Here is what the regulator said most recently, and what it does and does not change for someone who just wants a room.
What the regulator announced
On 25 September 2026 the NSW Independent Casino Commission (NICC) announced that the Minister for Gaming and Racing had amended the Casino Control Regulation 2019 to extend the term of The Star Sydney's manager, Nick Weeks, until 30 June 2027. The extension was made at the NICC's request. Mr Weeks continues to hold the casino licence for The Star Pty Limited, which allows the casino to keep operating its gaming facilities while the licence remains suspended.
The NICC's Chief Commissioner, Philip Crawford, said progress had been made, but that questions remained about governance, leadership and culture. The release also notes that The Star is awaiting the outcome of civil proceedings brought by AUSTRAC in the Federal Court, and that the suspension can be lifted at any time if the casino shows its remediation is properly embedded.
What it changes for a hotel guest
By day
During the day, almost nothing. The hotel, its pool, the restaurants and the residences are described on The Star's pages in the usual way, with the same phone numbers and policies.
Your booking, check-in and check-out are with the hotel, not with the regulator or the manager.
By night
At night, the casino keeps operating under the manager, with the same entry rules: 18+, proof of age if asked, a dress standard, and no photos.
If you never enter the gaming areas, the licence situation will not touch your stay.
Why we mention it at all
Because you might find the news and wonder whether to book. We prefer to give you the regulator's own words and a link, rather than leave you with a headline. We take no position on the outcome, and nothing on this site encourages anyone to gamble.
If gambling is a problem for you or someone close to you, GambleAware NSW is on 1800 858 858, 24/7, and self-exclusion from The Star is free; our responsible gambling page explains how.
Where these facts come from
Checked on 1 November 2026.