The Star Sydney: Casino Guide

The Star Sydney is one of two major casino destinations in Sydney (along with the newer Crown Sydney at Barangaroo). Located at Pyrmont near Darling Harbour, The Star opened in 1997 and has been continuously expanded since.

The casino floor

Around 1,500 slot machines and 200+ gaming tables. Multiple themed gaming areas. The Sovereign Room: high-stakes private salon. Inferno: a large slot-focused area. Standard floor: blackjack, roulette, baccarat, craps, poker, and Australian variants.

Minimum bets generally start higher than at regional casinos. Major table games typically start at AUD 25, with private rooms starting at AUD 100-250.

The hotels

The Darling: 5-star boutique hotel within The Star complex. The Star Grand Hotel and Residences: 5-star with executive lounge access. Both have direct casino access and strong dining options.

Beyond gambling

The dining is exceptional: Momofuku Seiobo (Sydney”s only restaurant in the worlds 50-best list when it operated), Sokyo, Black Bar and Grill, Cucina Porto. Multiple bars including the Cherry rooftop. Live entertainment and event spaces.

Crown Sydney comparison

Crown Sydney at Barangaroo (opened 2020) is the newer competitor. Crown is more upscale with a stronger luxury hotel and more dramatic views; The Star is more accessible, larger, and has been around longer with established dining and entertainment.

Getting there

Central Sydney location, easy access by light rail (The Star tram stop is at the entrance), bus, taxi, or short walk from Darling Harbour. Sydney Airport is around 25 minutes by car.

Entry rules

18+ only with valid ID. Smart casual dress code (no shorts, no thongs/flip-flops, no torn clothing). New South Wales has a strict regulatory environment; cash-handling rules and identification requirements are enforced more rigorously than in some other casino jurisdictions.