Vanguard Overwatch and McAtamney & Advisors have announced a strategic partnership that brings together leading expertise in anti-money laundering (AML), safer gambling and regulatory strategy to deliver tailored, end-to-end solutions for gambling operators and regulators navigating complex, high-stakes environments.

Vanguard Overwatch is a specialist advisory firm dedicated to advancing gambling-related public policy and regulatory excellence, strengthening industry capability and helping clients navigate complex regulatory environments.

This formal collaboration expands the reach of Vanguard Overwatch’s pioneering Accreditation Programme, which delivers independent assurance and practical insights to uplift capability, demonstrate leadership and mitigate compliance risks.

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Built around eight foundational pillars, the programme provides a structured evaluation of governance, AML/CTF processes, safer gambling practices and organisational culture—equipping venues and online operators to meet evolving regulatory expectations with confidence.

Paul Newson, principal at Vanguard Overwatch, said: “This partnership significantly enhances our ability to support clients navigating regulatory complexity and scrutiny. Together, we’re delivering sharp, independent analysis and tailored strategic advice that helps operators meet their obligations, protect their reputation, and drive better social and economic outcomes.”

James McAtamney, managing director of McAtamney & Advisors, has been appointed a principal at Vanguard Overwatch as part of the partnership.

He said: “We’re proud to align with Vanguard Overwatch to support operators in building high-performing compliance systems and engaging confidently with regulators. Our combined capabilities create a powerful platform to support clients across strategy, licensing, AML/CTF, and safer gambling.”

Both firms are active contributors to sector reform and participate in key industry and policy forums, including Regulating the Game and the International Association of Gaming Regulators. The partnership will also support the development of new service offerings, including rapid AML and safer gambling health checks and bespoke regulatory support for operators under pressure.

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The penalty was imposed by a Magistrate at Downing Centre Local Court on 31 March, after determining that the ads failed to meet standards of decency, dignity and good taste.

The breaches, published by Ryman Racing’s sub-brand PuntHub in October 2023, involved five posts across Facebook and Instagram.

Under the Betting and Racing Act 1998, gambling ads which are accessible to persons in NSW must adhere to strict requirements designed to protect the community from inappropriate content and potential gambling harm.

Liquor & Gaming NSW (L&GNSW) Acting Executive Director of Regulatory Operations, Bernadette Beard, said the decision highlights the consequences of breaching the state’s gambling advertising laws.

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“This is the first time a wagering operator in NSW has been prosecuted and convicted for publishing ads which offend standards of decency, dignity and good taste,” she said.

“L&GNSW actively monitors gambling advertising across all platforms and will not hesitate to take enforcement action where necessary.

“This is a serious penalty. I would urge betting providers take note and ensure the standards in the Act are being met in their advertising.”

The public can report concerns about gambling advertising via the L&GNSW website.

The NSW Independent Casino Commission has today notified The Star that its licence will remain suspended and the NICC-appointed Manager, Mr Nick Weeks, will continue to have oversight of casino operations until at least 30 September 2025, at which time the NICC will reassess The Star’s suitability to regain its casino licence.

Mr Weeks’ role was due to expire on 31 March and the NICC sought submissions from both The Star and the Manager in relation to The Star’s suitability to hold a casino license in NSW.

In its submissions The Star accepted that the Manager should remain in place for a further six months while remediation continues, and The Star implements measures to secure its finances.

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NICC Chief Commissioner, Mr Philip Crawford said that the submissions demonstrated steady improvements in The Star’s remediation but uncertainty around The Star’s financial situation meant that progress was slow, and The Star’s licence suspension should remain in effect.

“We welcome progress in The Star’s remediation efforts and are confident the company is moving in the right direction with its remediation plans,” Mr Crawford said.

“The next six months is a critical phase for The Star as it will need to show further progress with its remediation activities whilst also stabilising its finances.”

The extension of Mr Weeks’ role as Manager will allow The Star to operate gaming facilities while its licence remains suspended.

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