WA Amplifies Gambling Regulations, Enhances Penalties and Enforcement Authority

New legislation approved by Western Australia's government elevates penalties for rule violations and equips the Gaming and Wagering Commission with amplified powers. These modifications are in line with harmonizing state legislation with national standards.

Here are the key changes:

• Stiffer Penalties. The newly enacted legislation imposes heftier fines on offenders of gambling regulations, a move designed to toughen penalties and deter unlawful behavior.
• Enhanced Authority for GWC. Granting more extensive powers to the GWC, this shift plays a crucial role in regulation by empowering the commission with more stringent directives for casino operators.
• National Consistency. These legislative changes align WA with national movements tackling challenges such as online gambling match-fixing and sports-related risks, streamlining the application of uniform policies nationwide.

All About Reforms

These reforms stem from the Perth Casino Royal Commission's recommendations, which underscored the pressing need for modernizing gambling statutes.

Racing and Gaming Minister Paul Papalia endorsed the reforms, asserting they will refresh the gambling framework for the entire state, not just casinos. Papalia emphasized the importance of adhering to the Royal Commission’s suggestions to refine regulatory procedures.

Welcoming these changes as progress, GWC Chair Gary Dreibergs noted that increased penalties would effectively deter future infractions. Broadened powers enable more exhaustive investigations and curbing illicit operations linked to criminal elements, such as money laundering and organized crime.