Star Sydney Faces Closure Deadline, Credit Card Ban Adopted
In a significant announcement for the Australian gambling industry, Star Entertainment Sydney is racing against time to avoid closure, whilst the nation implements a sweeping ban on credit card use for online gambling.
Star Entertainment Sydney, one of the iconic land-based casinos in Australia, is trying to cope with a threat of closure. The gambling establishment in the country’s biggest city has been given a six-month window to address issues in order to avoid a forced shut down.
Make Sure To Read: Poker Banned Outside of Casinos in Tasmania
Stringent Deadline
According to the report, the New South Wales (NSW) government has set a stringent deadline for Star Entertainment Sydney to rectify regulatory compliance issues. The casino operator must address concerns related to anti-money laundering protocols and responsible gambling practices within the given timeframe. Failure to do so may result in the revocation of its operating licence, ultimately leading to closure. The committee released the following statement about the case:
“The NICC is not convinced that Star Entertainment Sydney has reached a point where the licence suspension can be lifted and the casino can continue to operate without managerial supervision. If they cannot prove their ability to operate on a conditional licence in the next six months, the casino will be shut down.”
NICC
Make Sure To Read: Star Fined Again in Australia
Senate Approves Credit Card Gambling Ban
Whilst Star Entertainment Sydney tries to tackle these challenges, the Australian gambling landscape is undergoing significant transformation on another front. The nation has recently enforced a ban on the use of credit cards for online gambling transactions. The ban, aimed at combating problem gambling and protecting vulnerable individuals, will prohibit the use of credit cards for making deposits or wagers on online gambling platforms. On 6 December, the Australia Senate approved legislation to prohibit the use of credit cards for online betting in the country, with a full ban set to come into effect within the next six months. This move aligns with Australia’s ongoing efforts to promote responsible gambling practices and mitigate the potential social harms associated with excessive gambling.
The decision to ban credit card transactions for online gambling has been met with a mix of support and criticism within the industry. Advocates argue that it will help safeguard players from accumulating debt and developing gambling-related problems, whilst opponents express concerns about the potential impact on consumer choice and convenience. Opponents claim that Australian players are expected to move their attention to offshore operators that accept credit card payments.
Make Sure To Read: Australia Considers Full Gambling Ad Ban After Report
Protection of Vulnerable Players
In light of these regulatory changes, both land-based and online gambling operators in Australia are forced to reassess their policies and practices to ensure compliance with the evolving legal landscape. Star Entertainment Sydney’s crisis serves as yet another reminder of the increased scrutiny facing the gambling industry in the country and the importance of upholding strict regulatory standards.
As the clock ticks for Star Entertainment Sydney to address its operational issues, the broader gambling industry in Australia faces a period of adjustment and adaptation to the new credit card ban. The coming months will witness heightened attention on regulatory compliance and responsible gambling initiatives across Australia as the industry adapts to these transformative changes.
Make Sure To Read: Australian Self-Exclusion Register BetStop Confirmed
