Star casino: The Star Sydney, Gold Coast & Brisbane Properties
The Star Entertainment Group and Its Australian Properties
The Star casino brand operates under Star Entertainment Group Limited, which owns and manages three licensed casino properties across Australia: The Star Sydney in Pyrmont, The Star Gold Coast, and Treasury Brisbane. The Star Sydney is the flagship property and the only licensed casino operating in New South Wales.
The Star Sydney sits on the western edge of Darling Harbour in Pyrmont, within walking distance of Sydney's CBD. It opened in 1997 as Star City Casino and was rebranded to The Star Sydney in 2011. The property spans two gaming floors and includes a hotel tower with 351 rooms, plus serviced apartments. It's the second-largest casino venue in Australia by floor space and gaming positions, behind only Crown Melbourne.
The Star Gold Coast occupies a waterfront site in Broadbeach, offering casino gaming alongside convention and exhibition facilities managed for the Queensland Government. Treasury Brisbane operates from the heritage-listed Treasury Building in the Brisbane CBD, providing a smaller-scale casino experience focused on table games and premium positioning.
Star Entertainment Group has operated under severe regulatory scrutiny since 2022. The NSW Independent Casino Commission (NICC) suspended The Star Sydney's casino licence in October 2022 following findings from the Bell Inquiry that the company was unsuitable to hold a licence due to systemic failures in anti-money-laundering controls, governance breaches, and failures to protect vulnerable customers. The suspension remains in effect through 2026 and has been extended into 2027.
The venue continues to operate under the suspended licence, but control has been transferred to an independent manager appointed by the NICC. Nick Weeks, a former gaming regulator, holds overall responsibility for The Star Sydney's operations while the suspension remains in place. This arrangement means patrons can still visit the venue, but the company itself cannot exercise full control over its own licence until regulators determine it has implemented sufficient reforms.
Star Entertainment Group has faced substantial financial penalties. The NICC issued a $100 million fine in October 2022 for anti-money-laundering breaches and an additional $10 million in fines in 2024 for allowing customers to gamble continuously without mandatory breaks. The company also entered into an enforceable undertaking requiring $5 million in spending to strengthen responsible gambling systems.
The company reported a return to positive EBITDA in its 2026 financial year after restructuring costs and reduced revenue during the regulatory crisis. The Star Sydney generated $162 million in revenue for the full year, while The Star Gold Coast posted $117 million. The group has centralised corporate functions to property level and closed its separate Brisbane corporate office as part of cost reduction measures.
What You'll Find at The Star Sydney
The Star Sydney offers gaming across two floors: the main gaming floor at street level and an upper level that includes premium gaming areas. The property holds more than 1,500 electronic gaming machines and over 100 table games, making it one of the largest gaming venues in the country by position count.
Gaming Machines and Denominations
Pokies at The Star Sydney range from low-denomination machines accepting bets of a few cents per spin to high-limit machines with maximum bets of $10 or more per line. The venue offers a mix of traditional reel-style games and modern video pokies with bonus features, progressive jackpots, and linked prizes. Machines are distributed across both gaming floors, with higher-limit options concentrated in designated premium areas.
Electronic table games and stadium gaming complement the pokies floor. These automated versions of roulette, baccarat, and sic bo allow players to bet at their own pace on live dealer outcomes displayed on screens, with lower minimum bets than the live tables.
Table Games and Minimums
The main gaming floor hosts blackjack, roulette, baccarat, poker variants, and craps. Minimum bets vary by game type and time of day. Standard blackjack and roulette tables typically open with minimums of $10 to $25 during quieter periods, rising to $25 or $50 on busy nights and weekends. Baccarat minimums generally start higher, often $25 to $50 on the main floor.
Premium gaming rooms and high-limit salons occupy separate areas with restricted access. These rooms cater to players willing to meet higher minimum bets, often $100 or more per hand, and provide a quieter environment with dedicated service. Access to these areas typically requires membership or invitation, particularly for the most exclusive salons.
Star Poker Sydney
The Star Poker room operates 20 tables around the clock at the southern end of the main casino floor. It runs a regular schedule of cash games in No Limit Hold'em, Pot Limit Omaha, and other variants, with buy-ins and blinds to suit different bankrolls. The poker room also hosts tournament series throughout the year, including deep-stack events and championship competitions that draw interstate and international players.
| Facility or Product Type | What's Available | Scale and Capacity | Access Level and Pricing Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electronic gaming machines (pokies) | Over 1,500 machines with traditional reels and video pokies, ranging from low-denomination penny slots to high-limit machines | Largest pokies floor in NSW, distributed across two gaming levels | Open to all patrons 18+; low-denomination machines accept bets from a few cents, high-limit machines $10+ per line |
| Table games | Blackjack, roulette, baccarat, craps, poker variants; over 100 live tables on main and upper gaming floors | Second only to Crown Melbourne in total table count nationally | Main floor minimums typically $10–$50 depending on game and time; premium rooms require higher buy-ins, often $100+ per hand |
| Star Poker Sydney | 20-table poker room with cash games (No Limit Hold'em, Pot Limit Omaha) and regular tournament series | Operates 24/7 at southern end of main gaming floor | Open to all players 18+; cash game buy-ins and tournament entries vary by stakes and event |
| VIP gaming rooms and high-limit salons | Private and semi-private gaming areas with dedicated table games, higher limits, and personalised service | Multiple premium rooms on upper level and within main floor | Invitation or membership typically required; minimum bets and buy-ins considerably higher than main floor |
| Restaurants and bars | Multiple dining venues from casual eateries to fine dining, plus bars distributed across gaming and hotel areas | Range covers quick bites, buffet-style service, and premium à la carte restaurants | Entry-level casual dining accessible to all; fine dining and premium bars attract higher spend |
| Hotel accommodation | 351 hotel rooms in the Darling tower, plus 130 serviced apartments | Full-service hotel integrated with casino complex | Room rates vary by season and demand; standard rooms through to luxury suites available |
| Entertainment and event spaces | Dedicated event venues, performance areas, and function spaces for corporate and private events | Facilities support conferences, product launches, live entertainment, and large-scale functions | Event access by ticket or booking; corporate and private hire available |
Dining, Bars, and Accommodation
The Star Sydney houses multiple dining options. Casual venues serve quick meals and lighter fare for players who want to eat without leaving the property. Mid-tier restaurants offer table service and more substantial menus. Premium dining rooms provide fine dining experiences with curated wine lists and higher price points.
Bars are distributed across both gaming floors and within the hotel and dining precincts. Options range from sports bars with screens showing racing and major sporting events to cocktail lounges and wine bars serving premium selections.
The Darling hotel tower offers 351 rooms and suites. Room categories include standard accommodation through to luxury suites with harbour views. The property also manages 130 serviced and privately owned apartments within the complex. Hotel guests have direct access to the casino, dining, and entertainment facilities.
NSW Casino Licensing and Regulatory Oversight
The Star Sydney operates under a casino licence issued by the NSW Government and regulated by the NSW Independent Casino Commission. NSW operates a single-licence model: only one land-based casino licence exists for the Sydney metropolitan area, and The Star Sydney holds it. Crown Sydney, which opened in Barangaroo in 2020, operates under a restricted licence that permits table games but not poker machines.
The NICC assumed regulatory responsibility for NSW casinos following the Bell Inquiry findings. The inquiry, led by Adam Bell SC, found The Star Sydney unsuitable to hold a casino licence due to systemic governance failures, inadequate anti-money-laundering controls, and failures to prevent harm to problem gamblers. The commission suspended the licence in October 2022 but allowed the venue to continue operating under independent management.
Nick Weeks, the independent manager appointed by the NICC, holds direct authority over The Star Sydney's operations. He reports to the commission and must satisfy regulatory requirements before control can return to Star Entertainment Group. The suspension has been extended multiple times. The most recent extension, announced in late 2026, keeps Weeks in control through June 2027.
The external management arrangement means Star Entertainment Group continues to own the property and employ its staff, but strategic decisions, compliance systems, and operational policies remain under the independent manager's oversight. Patrons experience minimal direct impact: gaming, dining, and hotel services continue, and disputes or complaints follow the same processes that apply to any NSW licensed venue.
What NSW Licensing Means for Players
A NSW casino licence carries legal obligations that do not apply to offshore casino websites. Licensed venues must comply with NSW responsible gambling requirements, including mandatory pre-commitment systems, self-exclusion registers, and staff intervention protocols. The venue must allow access to support services and maintain systems that detect and respond to signs of gambling harm.
Players at The Star Sydney have access to formal dispute resolution through the NICC. If a dispute arises over a payout, account restriction, or venue conduct, the commission can investigate and impose binding remedies. This regulatory backstop does not exist for offshore casino sites, which operate outside Australian jurisdiction and are not licensed to serve Australian residents under the Interactive Gambling Act 2001.
NSW casino regulation also imposes limits on advertising, credit provision, and cash handling. Licensed casinos cannot extend credit to patrons for gambling purposes, cannot advertise to minors, and must report large cash transactions to AUSTRAC under anti-money-laundering laws. These conditions apply whether the licence is active or suspended; the independent manager remains bound by the same legal framework as the licence holder.
Visiting The Star Sydney: Location, Access, and Requirements
The Star Sydney is located at 80 Pyrmont Street, Pyrmont, NSW 2009. The property sits on the western side of Darling Harbour, directly accessible from Pyrmont Bridge and within a short walk from Sydney's CBD and surrounding inner suburbs.
Transport and Parking
Light rail services stop at The Star station, immediately adjacent to the venue. Sydney Ferries operate to Pyrmont Bay Wharf, a five-minute walk from the casino entrance. Multiple bus routes serve Pyrmont Street and the surrounding precinct.
On-site parking is available in the multi-level car park beneath the property. Parking fees apply, with rates varying by duration and time of day. Hotel guests and higher-tier rewards members may receive discounted or complimentary parking, subject to current policy.
Age, ID, and Dress Code
Entry to The Star Sydney is restricted to patrons aged 18 and over. Valid photo identification is required at the door. Acceptable ID includes an Australian driver licence, passport, proof of age card, or Defence Force ID. Security checks ID at entry points and may request it again on the gaming floor.
From August 2024, a membership card is required to play gaming machines at The Star Sydney. Players must register for membership before using pokies, though table games and poker remain accessible without prior membership. Registration is free and requires proof of identity and residential address.
Dress code expectations are smart casual. Thongs, singlets, offensive clothing, and excessively casual sportswear are generally refused entry. Premium gaming areas and fine dining venues enforce stricter dress standards, typically requiring closed shoes and collared shirts for men.
Responsible Gambling Tools and Support
The Star Sydney provides access to responsible gambling tools required under NSW regulation. Players can set deposit limits, loss limits, and time limits on gaming machine play through their membership account. Voluntary self-exclusion is available for periods ranging from three months to permanent exclusion. Excluded players are banned from entry and have their accounts closed.
NSW residents can also register with BetStop, the national self-exclusion register. BetStop registration excludes players from all participating Australian-licensed wagering and casino services, including The Star properties. Registration is free and can be completed online or by phone. Once registered, players cannot revoke BetStop exclusion for a minimum period.
On-site staff are trained to identify signs of gambling harm and can refer patrons to support services. Gambling Help Online provides free, confidential counselling and support 24 hours a day on 1800 858 858. The service offers phone counselling, online chat, and referrals to face-to-face services across NSW.
Is The Star Sydney still operating after the licence suspension?
Yes. The Star Sydney continues to operate gaming, dining, hotel, and entertainment services while its licence remains suspended. The venue operates under an independent manager appointed by the NSW Independent Casino Commission, with the suspension extended through June 2027.
Do I need a membership card to gamble at The Star Sydney?
A membership card is required to play electronic gaming machines (pokies) at The Star Sydney from August 2024. Table games and poker room entry do not require prior membership. Membership registration is free and requires valid photo ID and proof of residential address.
What are the table game minimums at The Star Sydney?
Minimum bets on the main gaming floor typically range from $10 to $50 depending on the game and time of day. Blackjack and roulette often start at $10 to $25 during quieter periods, rising to $25 or $50 on busy nights. Premium gaming rooms and high-limit salons have higher minimums, often $100 or more per hand.
How does The Star Sydney differ from offshore casino sites?
The Star Sydney operates under a NSW casino licence with regulatory obligations enforced by the NSW Independent Casino Commission. Licensed venues must comply with responsible gambling laws, allow dispute resolution through the regulator, and cannot extend credit. Offshore casino sites are not licensed to serve Australians under the Interactive Gambling Act 2001 and operate outside Australian regulatory oversight.
Where is The Star Sydney located and how do I get there?
The Star Sydney is at 80 Pyrmont Street, Pyrmont, on the western side of Darling Harbour. The Star light rail station is immediately adjacent. Pyrmont Bay Wharf (Sydney Ferries) is a five-minute walk, and multiple bus routes serve the area. On-site parking is available with fees applying.