A $10 betting limit for Electronic Gaming Machines (EGMs) will be enforced at Crown Casino from 1 July 2023.
Endorsed by Racing and Gaming Minister Tony Buti, and enforced by the Gaming and Wagering Commission, the betting limit is part of the ongoing work to implement recommendations from the Perth Casino Royal Commission's Final Report.
The Western Australian Government is also progressing further harm minimisation measures relating to EGMs, which include:
- pre-set weekly loss limits;
- pre-set weekly time limits; and
- cashless EGMs/mandating carded play to monitor player gambling.
This tranche of reforms is likely to be implemented by 1 December 2025, to allow for any additional technology or policies that may need to be put in place.
The reforms will build on WA's existing gaming machine restrictions, which are the toughest in the country.
The location of EGMs is restricted to Crown Perth Casino, with approval granted to operate up to 2,500 machines. Further to this, poker machines - which are a familiar feature in suburban venues in the eastern states - are prohibited in WA.
The WA Government and the Gaming and Wagering Commission have already made significant progress towards addressing issues raised by the Royal Commission.
The Casino Legislation Amendment (Burswood Casino) Bill 2022 recently passed through Parliament, and the Casino Control Act 1984 has been amended to provide the Commission with expanded power to direct the casino licensee with respect to all operations of the Perth Casino - not just the gaming operations.
Anyone who is experiencing gambling-related harm can seek help at https://www.gambleaware.com.au/, or call 1800 858 858.
As stated by Racing and Gaming Minister Tony Buti:
"The leading recommendation made by the Royal Commission to address the risk of gambling-related harm for casino patrons is for a comprehensive scheme that will empower them to set their own spend and time limits for EGM use.
"Enacting the $10 limit is the first step as we continue to work towards minimising gambling harm, especially for casino patrons using EGMs.
"The WA Government remains committed to working with the Gaming and Wagering Commission to deliver successful outcomes on the Royal Commission's Final Report recommendations."
As stated by Gaming and Wagering Commission Chair Lanie Chopping:
"We are pleased to advise that significant work is already underway to implement a number of the Royal Commission's recommendations, with much to be achieved in the next 12 to 18 months.
"The Gaming and Wagering Commission is considering all policy aspects and recommendations related to EGMs - including the impact of any required technology updates - in order to fast-track these reforms.
"The Commission understands the importance of its role as an independent regulator and is committed to fully exploring these matters so that sound and appropriately informed public policy positions can be developed."
Minister's Office - 6552 6400
