Adam Bell SC, known for the first Bell report, has been appointed to conduct the second inquiry, Bell Two, beginning on February 19 and running for 15 weeks. The final report is due on May 31, 2024. The inquiry will examine how Star is implementing recommendations from the first Bell report in an effort to regain its casino license.
Key points of the inquiry will include:
- Examining the culture at Star, including risk management and reporting lines
- Assessing if Star has obtained the necessary financial resources to support The Star Casino
- Reviewing progress made by Star since the original Bell report
Star has faced challenges, including being declared unsuitable to hold a casino license in NSW in September 2022. The company also faces regulatory action in Queensland, class actions, and a potential fine from AUSTRAC.
Star requested a trading halt related to the NICC’s contact. This comes shortly after the company agreed to a jobs guarantee deal in NSW that includes maintaining a minimum headcount and implementing cashless play at its Sydney casino. Star’s financial performance has been impacted, with a reported full-year loss of AU$2.4bn in August 2023.
