The New South Wales Independent Casino Commission (NICC) has yet to deliver a ruling on the Bell Report, which was submitted on July 31. In a filing on Thursday, Star Entertainment Group announced that it had received approval from the NICC to extend the term of special manager Nick Weeks until March 31, 2025. This extension is subject to termination at the NICC's discretion.
Since 2022, Weeks has overseen Star Sydney's remediation efforts and has had his term extended multiple times. Initially, his current term was scheduled to end on September 31.
Weeks' extension may suggest that Star Sydney could receive another opportunity to demonstrate its suitability, especially as the NICC indicated on Wednesday that it is reviewing the Bell Report. Star had previously been deemed unsuitable in the first Bell inquiry in 2022, with a second investigation commencing in February.
The second inquiry has not significantly improved the operator's reputation, as public hearings conducted over the spring revealed several compliance issues and strained relations with the NICC. Many executives have departed from the company, including former chairman David Foster and former CEO Robbie Cooke.
Should Star's license be revoked, it would be made available to external bidders, although the specifics of this scenario remain unclear.
Recent local media reports have suggested that Star could again be found unsuitable, with indications that the operator may require up to five years to become fully compliant. Aside from Weeks' extension, the NICC has not issued further rulings.
In light of these speculations, Star issued another filing on Thursday to clarify that no decision has yet been made regarding their status. A spokesperson for Star Sydney stated, "The report prepared by Mr. Adam Bell SC and submitted to the New South Wales Independent Casino Commission has not yet been publicly released, and The Star has not received a copy of the report or been advised of its contents."
Prior to the report's submission, Star's chief risk officer, Scott Saunders, announced his resignation but will remain in his position until January 31, 2025, after serving for less than 18 months.
