Gamblers must also set a limit on their gambling spend, and adhere to it. The system is in the process of being introduced in Queensland. Although neither casino chain closed its doors, regulatory breaches led to appointment of special managers to oversee the business and hold the licences. Further change included beefing up regulators’ powers and resources. Both casinos facilitated money laundering, particularly via junket operators, organisers of casino visits by high rollers. Unfortunately, many of these people had strong links to organised crime gangs keen to launder their illegally acquired money.
To add further strain to profits, the New South Wales government is considering increasing taxes on gaming revenue. Discussions between Star and the State continue to develop, with the hope that tax increases will not be as damaging as projected by investment analysts. The share price of Star Entertainment has fallen significantly in the past days. The Star Entertainment Group Ltd (SGR), the owner of Star Casino Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, has seen its share price take a dive due to the potential increase in NSW state gaming taxes and increased competition from Crown Casino.