The New South Wales (NSW) government has announced the appointment of Christine Howlett as a new commissioner of the NSW Independent Casino Commission (NICC).

Howlett assumes the position vacated by Craig Sahlin, who has served an NICC commissioner since 2022.

Howlett has served as deputy special manager independently overseeing Crown Melbourne’s remediation program following the findings of the Finkelstein Royal Commission, which included money laundering and safer gambling reforms.

She has also worked with Victoria’s Independent Broad-based Anti-Corruption Commission, the NSW Department of Family and Community Services, Victoria’s Royal Commission into the Management of Police Informants and the National Crime Authority.

“An exhaustive selection process was undertaken to fill the NICC Commissioner role in accordance with legislative requirements, including the establishment of a selection panel and engagement of an independent probity adviser,” said Minister for Gaming and Racing David Harris.

“Christine Howlett brings a wide range of skills and expertise to the NICC, with highly relevant experience in independently overseeing Crown Melbourne’s remediation program. She joins the NICC at a critical time with the regulator currently monitoring The Star casino’s ongoing remediation work following the Bell Two Inquiry.

Harris added: “I would like to thank Craig Sahlin for his outstanding contribution to both the NICC and ILGA over the past eight years. His demonstrated expertise has significantly contributed to strengthening the government’s regulatory framework and public confidence and trust in the work of both the NICC and ILGA.”

Philip Crawford, chief commissioner at the NICC, commented: “The NICC is pleased to welcome Christine Howlett to the role and is looking forward to utilising her experience to advance the NICC’s strategic priorities.

“Christine’s skills will be valuable to help the NICC expand its surveillance and data collection abilities to better monitor financial crime risks and compliance.

“We thank Craig Sahlin for his exceptional work with the NICC and ILGA over the past eight years. His dedication was instrumental in advancing the NICC’s mission and his efforts have contributed to the achievement of significant milestones.”