Western Australia Strengthens Gambling Laws

Western Australia has taken a major step in reforming its gambling regulations, introducing stricter penalties and enhanced enforcement powers. These changes come in response to the Perth Casino Royal Commission’s recommendations, aiming to create a safer, more transparent gambling industry.

With the Gaming and Wagering Commission (GWC) now granted expanded powers, the WA government seeks to crack down on non-compliance, illegal gambling activities, and regulatory breaches. These reforms also align state policies with national gambling protection initiatives, ensuring stronger consumer protections and better industry oversight.

Western Australia Strengthens Gambling Laws with Tougher Penalties and Enhanced Regulatory Powers

New Laws to Strengthen Gambling Oversight and Enforcement

Key Changes in WA’s Gambling Laws

🔹 Expanded investigative powers for the GWC
🔹 Higher penalties for casino operators and license holders
🔹 Alignment with national gambling protection measures

These updates aim to modernize WA’s gambling laws, improving accountability and reducing the risks of financial crimes in the sector.

Gaming and Wagering Commission Gains Greater Regulatory Powers

The Gaming and Wagering Commission (GWC) now has the authority to:

✔ Conduct deeper investigations into potential breaches of gambling laws.
✔ Issue stricter directions to casino licensees to ensure compliance.
✔ Prosecute operators more effectively, using enhanced enforcement tools.

According to GWC Chair Gary Dreibergs, these new powers will significantly improve the commission’s ability to prevent illegal activities, including money laundering and organized crime in WA’s gambling industry.

By strengthening its regulatory reach, the GWC can now hold operators accountable and ensure that gambling businesses operate within legal boundaries.

Tougher Penalties to Deter Regulatory Violations

One of the most significant updates in WA’s gambling laws is the increase in financial penalties for non-compliance. The government has raised fines to ensure they serve as an effective deterrent against illegal gambling practices.

✔ Higher fines for casino operators who violate gambling laws.
✔ Stronger consequences for businesses engaging in fraudulent activities.
✔ More severe repercussions for those attempting to subvert regulations.

Previously, some operators viewed lower penalties as an acceptable business risk, choosing to violate laws for financial gain. With stricter fines and tougher enforcement, WA aims to eliminate such loopholes and create a fair and responsible gambling industry.

Alignment with National Gambling Protection Initiatives

WA’s reforms also bring state gambling laws in line with national consumer protection frameworks. These include:

🔹 The National Consumer Protection Framework for Online Gambling, introducing measures like betting limits and self-exclusion programs.
🔹 The National Policy on Match-Fixing in Sport, strengthening protections against match-fixing and sports-related corruption.

By aligning state laws with national policies, WA ensures a more unified approach to gambling regulation across Australia. These changes will also make it easier for licensed operators to integrate responsible gambling measures into their platforms.

A Stronger, More Transparent Gambling Industry

The Western Australian government remains committed to modernizing its gambling regulations. According to Racing and Gaming Minister Paul Papalia, these reforms are only the beginning, with more legislative updates expected.

With greater enforcement powers, tougher penalties, and national alignment, WA is setting a new standard for responsible gambling regulation. These reforms will:

✔ Protect consumers from unethical gambling practices.
✔ Ensure operators comply with strict licensing conditions.
✔ Reduce financial crimes and illegal gambling activities.

As the gambling industry continues to evolve, WA’s regulatory framework will adapt to emerging challenges. For casino operators and gambling businesses, staying compliant is now more critical than ever to avoid severe penalties and maintain licenses.

📢 Stay informed about WA’s gambling law changes and ensure your operations remain compliant!