Star Entertainment Group has temporarily shut down all electronic gaming machines (EGMs) and electronic table games (ETGs) at its casinos due to significant system performance issues. The announcement was made following disruptions detected during post-upgrade testing aimed at implementing cashless gaming systems.
System performance disruptions:
On July 13, Star Entertainment identified performance problems in its systems during the testing phase after scheduled upgrades. This led to the decision to disable all EGMs and ETGs across their three properties: The Star Sydney, The Treasury Brisbane, and The Star Gold Coast. The company’s filing to the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) on July 15 highlighted these issues and its commitment to resolving them swiftly.
The decision to halt electronic gaming operations was driven by the need to comply with regulatory standards and uphold the company’s dedication to safe gambling practices. As GGRAsia reports, a statement from Star Entertainment read, “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 10pm onwards on 13 July 2024 until the issue is resolved.”
According to the official AFX announcement (pdf), Star Entertainment is actively working with Konami, their external system provider, to address and rectify the operational issues. The company has assured stakeholders and patrons that updates will be provided as soon as normal operations resume.
Continued non-gaming services:
Despite the suspension of electronic gaming activities, all three casino properties remain open to the public, offering table games, dining, and entertainment services. The non-gaming amenities continue operating as usual, ensuring guests can still enjoy other aspects of the casino resorts.
The announcement impacted Star Entertainment’s share price, which fell nearly 1.0 percent during Monday’s morning trading. Over the past year, the company’s shares have seen a significant decline, dropping by 49.7 percent. The recent system issues have added to the challenges faced by the company, which has been under scrutiny following regulatory inquiries.
Star Entertainment recently appointed Steve McCann as its new chief executive and managing director. McCann is tasked with steering the company through the current challenges, including the regulatory inquiry into the Sydney operations. The company is also preparing for the upcoming opening of The Star Brisbane, a highly anticipated new casino resort set to commence operations on August 29.
Star Entertainment’s swift action in addressing the system performance issues underscores its commitment to regulatory compliance and customer safety. The collaboration with Konami aims to ensure a thorough and prompt resolution, minimizing disruption to casino operations. The company remains focused on maintaining high standards of service and safety across all its properties.