Levy to be imposed on Sydney's Star casino

The New South Wales Government has introduced legislation to impose a levy on Sydney's Star Casino to help cover the costs of monitoring and regulating its operations.

Taxpayers currently bear most of the cost for the Independent Liquor and Gaming Authority to oversee the casino, but the Minister for Hospitality George Souris says it is appropriate for the Star to pick up the tab instead.

Regulating the activities of the Sydney casino is one of the key responsibilities of the Independent Liquor and Gaming Authority.

The exact amount of the levy is yet to be worked out, but the legislation allows for it to be adjusted for inflation.

Mr Souris says the Government intends to have the new regulations in place by next financial year.

"A casino environment demands intensive oversight to ensure unique risks associated with such a venue are identified and managed within a strict regulatory framework," he said.

"Regulatory systems are in place to protect industry integrity and ensure that the operation of the casino is free from criminal influence and also to promote community confidence."

Source: ABC News, 22 May 2013