- The Gaming and Wagering Commission of Western Australia (GWC) bolstered by extra capacity and capability
- GWC member appointments support strong leadership and governance with high level skills and experience
The Western Australian Government has expanded the capacity and capability of the Gaming and Wagering Commission of Western Australia (GWC) to support its role as a regulator of the State's gaming and wagering industry.
New appointments to the GWC expand the range of skills and experience available and strengthen its leadership. The new appointees include former WA Police Force Assistant Commissioner Paul Steel and experienced lawyer Melanie Cave, and former Government Minister Bill Johnston
Mr Steel, who until recently was the Independent Monitor of Crown Perth's remediation activities, is the Commission's first full time member. In addition to his normal GWC member duties, Mr Steel will continue to oversee the casino's activities to ensure operations are lawful and responsible.
Ms Cave brings extensive expertise as a qualified lawyer experienced in commercial and property law and specialising in the end-to-end delivery of strategic national and international infrastructure projects.
Mr Johnston brings 17 years of experience from a distinguished career as a Minister holding a diverse array of portfolios as well as a long-serving Member of Parliament. He retired from Parliament prior to the March 2025 state election.
They join the Chair Gary Dreibergs and existing members who have been re-appointed: Katie Hodson-Thomas; Colin Murphy; Helen Creed; and Sam Buckeridge.
Further information on racing, gaming and wagering laws in Western Australia is available on the LGIRS website .
As stated by Racing and Gaming Minister Paul Papalia:
"I recently announced that Crown Perth was deemed a suitable entity to continue holding a gaming licence under the Casino Control Act 1984. This was the result of the casino undergoing an extensive remediation program to achieve suitability.
"Mr Steel's appointment will allow him to continue his good work overseeing Crown and help the Gaming and Wagering Commission remain focused on the ongoing effectiveness of operational reforms.
"The new appointments to the GWC ensure it has the necessary skills, expertise and resources to effectively regulate the gambling industry in WA."
As stated by Gaming and Wagering Commission Chair Gary Dreibergs:
"The Gaming and Wagering Commission continues to build capacity and capability through these additions to its membership.
"I welcome Mr Steel, Ms Cave, and Mr Johnston as new members, I congratulate our existing members on their reappointment and thank them for their continuing contribution and commitment.
"I look forward to progressing our work to effectively regulate gaming and wagering in WA, ensuring fair and ethical conduct occurs across the industry.
