Star Entertainment Group CEO Steve McCann departs role
The Star Entertainment Group has announced the departure of chief executive and managing director Steve McCann, ending an 18-month tenure marked by regulatory pressure and financial restructuring at the Australian casino operator.
In an ASX statement on Monday, The Star confirmed McCann will step down effective December 16, 2025. Executive chair Bruce Mathieson Jnr will assume additional duties while the board undertakes a search for a permanent replacement.
McCann will remain available in an advisory capacity until July 8, 2026, assisting with government and regulatory engagement during the transition.
McCann was appointed during a period of crisis for The Star, as the group grappled with state-led inquiries, licence suspensions and heightened oversight of its Sydney, Brisbane and Gold Coast casinos.
During his tenure, Star Entertainment progressed a remediation plan aimed at restoring regulatory confidence and stabilising its balance sheet.
“On behalf of the Board I want to thank Steve for his strong leadership and hard work during one of the most complex and challenging periods for The Star,” Mathieson Jnr said.
“Steve joined at a time of crisis for The Star and has helped to deliver a critical financial reset for the business and successfully progressed our Remediation Plan, which have laid the foundations for The Star’s long-term future success.
“We wish him well in his next endeavours.”
McCann said his exit follows the strategic investment by Bally’s Corporation and Investment Holdings Pty Ltd, describing it as an opportunity for The Star to pursue a new direction. He said fresh leadership was needed to build on recent momentum, while thanking the group’s roughly 8,000 employees for their resilience through a challenging period.
“The strategic investment by Bally’s Corporation and Investment Holdings Pty Ltd provides an opportunity for The Star to move in a new direction and pursue a pathway to recovery and future growth,” he said.
“Now is the right time for new leadership to be put in place with the experience and passion to build on that momentum and take The Star forward.
The leadership change comes as The Star continues efforts to rebuild trust with regulators and secure its future as a licensed gambling operator in Australia.
