These updates aim to ensure a consistent regulatory approach across jurisdictions
The Western Australian government has introduced stronger enforcement measures and higher penalties to regulate the state’s gambling industry more effectively.
The legislative reforms, which recently passed parliament, aim to modernise gambling laws in response to recommendations from the Perth Casino Royal Commission.
Under the changes, penalties for failing to comply with gambling laws and directives from the Gaming and Wagering Commission (GWC) have been significantly increased. The reforms also grant the GWC greater authority to issue directions to the state's casino licensee.
Racing and Gaming Minister Paul Papalia emphasised that the reforms are designed to expand the regulator’s compliance and enforcement powers while ensuring that penalties serve as a meaningful deterrent against non-compliance. "Addressing all the legislative reform recommendations of the Royal Commission will take time, but we are well advanced on our pathway to implementing the wide-ranging changes required to establish a modern regulatory framework, not only for casino operations but for all gambling activities in WA," Papalia stated.
The reforms align Western Australia’s gambling policies with national initiatives, such as the National Consumer Protection Framework for Online Gambling and the National Policy on Match-Fixing in Sport. These updates aim to ensure a consistent regulatory approach across jurisdictions.
GWC Chair Gary Dreibergs welcomed the legislative changes, highlighting their role in strengthening enforcement efforts. "The substantial increase in penalties will act as a more effective deterrent and a more appropriate punishment for lawbreakers who may regard current lower penalties as an acceptable risk when considering the profits that can be made from subverting the laws," Dreibergs said.
The additional powers granted to the GWC will enhance its capacity to conduct investigations and prosecute illegal gambling activities. According to Dreibergs, these measures will help disrupt operations linked to money laundering and organised crime. The changes are expected to improve compliance, deter unlawful gambling practices, and align the state's laws with national policies.