Australian casino operator Star Entertainment has recently announced a new agreement with the New South Wales (NSW) government to guarantee the protection of jobs within the company. The deal aims to provide stability in the uncertain times caused by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
The agreement, which applies to Star Entertainment's properties in Sydney, Brisbane, and the Gold Coast, ensures that there will be no forced redundancies for its employees until the end of 2021. This commitment comes as a relief to the company's workforce, who have faced ongoing concerns about job security due to the significant impact of the pandemic on the hospitality and entertainment sectors.
Star Entertainment's properties include Sydney's The Star, which is currently undergoing a massive transformation as part of a $3.9 billion redevelopment project, as well as The Star Gold Coast and Treasury Brisbane.
The CEO of Star Entertainment, Matt Bekier, expressed his gratitude for the government's support during these challenging times. He stated, 'Our industry has been severely affected by the pandemic, and we appreciate the government's recognition of the value our employees bring to our company. This agreement provides certainty and reassurance to our team members, knowing that their jobs are protected during these uncertain times.'
The jobs guarantee agreement aligns with the NSW government's commitment to stimulate economic recovery and safeguard employment opportunities in the state. NSW Deputy Premier John Barilaro commended Star Entertainment for its dedication to its workforce, stating, 'This agreement demonstrates the company's commitment to its employees and supports our goal of protecting jobs in NSW. We value the significant contribution that Star Entertainment makes to the local economy and welcome their ongoing efforts to help drive the state's recovery from the impacts of COVID-19.'
In addition to protecting jobs, Star Entertainment has implemented various measures to ensure the safety and wellbeing of its employees and guests. These measures include enhanced cleaning protocols, social distancing measures, mandatory mask-wearing, and contact tracing procedures. The company's commitment to health and safety aligns with the NSW government's efforts to contain the spread of COVID-19 and provide a safe environment for residents and visitors alike.
As the Australian hospitality and entertainment industries continue to navigate the challenges posed by the ongoing pandemic, Star Entertainment's jobs guarantee agreement offers a glimmer of hope for its employees. By providing job security during these uncertain times, the company aims to support its dedicated workforce and contribute to the overall recovery of the industry.
With the support of the NSW government and its ongoing commitment to health and safety measures, Star Entertainment remains optimistic about its ability to weather the storm and emerge stronger in a post-COVID world. As the company's transformation projects progress and tourism gradually rebounds, the preservation of jobs becomes crucial not only for the individuals involved but also for the overall stability of the industry in NSW.
