Electronic gaming machines (EGMs) and electronic table games (ETGs) at all three of Star Entertainment Group’s Australian casinos remained offline on Monday following what it describes as “system performance issues” related to the introduction of cashless gaming technology. The machines had gone dark on Saturday evening and have remained that way ever since at time of writing.
According to information released by the company via an ASX announcement, the issue relates to planned upgrades to The Star’s systems in readiness for the introduction of cashless gaming.
“Certain of The Star’s systems have been disrupted due to system performance issues identified in post-upgrade testing which resulted in the decision to switch off all Electronic Gaming Machines and Electronic Table Games in each of The Star’s three properties from 10:00pm onwards on 13 July 2024 until the issue is resolved,” Star said.
“The decision was taken by The Star to ensure compliance with relevant regulations, and to maintain the company’s commitment to safer gambling procedures.”
Star explained that it is working with its systems provider Konami to address the issues but said its properties – Treasury Brisbane, The Star Gold Coast and The Star Sydney – remain open with table games still operational.
Nevertheless, the problem is yet another blow to a company already struggling against a tightened regulatory environment and awaiting the findings of a second inquiry into its suitability to hold a NSW casino license for The Star Sydney. As reported by Inside Asian Gaming, Star last month revealed that it expects to report a 3.3% year-on-year and 4.3% quarter-on-quarter decline in group-wide revenue for the three months to 30 June 2024, impacted by further declines in its premium gaming segment.
The company is also in the midst of another executive overhaul with former Crown Resorts CEO Steve McCann recently named to replace Robbie Cooke as CEO and Managing Director.