Star Entertainment Group Bans Poker Players Without Explanation

Star Entertainment Group has banned at least eight prominent poker players without explanation, sparking significant backlash from the Australian poker community. The bans have led to protests and a petition, initiated by Craig Abernethy, founder of australianpokerschedule.com.au, which has garnered over 600 signatures. The petition, addressed to Star Entertainment Group’s Compliance and Investigations Team, seeks answers and the reinstatement of the players’ rights to play at Star venues.

The Impact on Players

One of the most affected players is Alex Lynskey, a final table participant at the 2018 WSOP Main Event. Lynskey was reportedly distraught over not being able to attend and play in the WPT Australia, the biggest and most prestigious poker festival of the year in Australia. The arbitrary nature of these bans has raised concerns among poker players who rely on the game for their livelihood.

The casino's actions come amidst ongoing regulatory issues and massive fines resulting from failures related to anti-money laundering regulations. In 2022, the casino operator was ordered by a judge to lift its ban on two gamblers accused of cheating, highlighting the casino's past controversies. The recent bans have only added to the frustration and sense of injustice felt by the poker community, who have tried to discuss the issue with Star Entertainment and regulatory authorities but have faced dead ends.