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Montage of portraits of Paul Steel, Melanie Cave and Bill Johnston.

Extra resources bolster the Gaming and Wagering Commission

Sep 1, 2025

The WA 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.

Horses and jockeys on the track at the Broome Cup, 16 August 2025

Communique — 2025 Australasian Racing Ministers Conference

Aug 28, 2025

On 15 August 2025, Racing Ministers met at the annual Australasian Racing Ministers’ Conference (ARMC), which was held in Broome in Western Australia and provided a valuable opportunity to consider issues affecting the Australian and New Zealand racing industries.

Racegoers flock to WA’s north west for Broome Cup

Aug 18, 2025

Thousands of horse racing enthusiasts gathered in the State’s north west on Saturday for the Broome Cup, the Kimberley’s showcase racing event.

A scene from the illegal gambling raid, with people sitting around a gambling table, and a close up of a bag of cash

Dealer licence suspended and cash seized at an illegal home casino

Aug 8, 2025

Gaming authorities have raided a private home in Marangaroo where it’s alleged an illegal game of Baccarat was underway at a makeshift casino.

Portrait photos of Mayor Karen Vernon and Bill Johnston

New appointments to Burswood Park Board

Aug 4, 2025

Respected former Western Australian Government Minister Bill Johnston and Town of Victoria Park Mayor Karen Vernon have been appointed to the Burswood Park Board, which manages the 53-hectare parkland on the banks of the Swan River.

A gaming table with gambling chips and playingcards

Fines for organiser and others involved in an illegal gaming house

Jul 25, 2025

Three men have been fined by the Perth Magistrate Court for their involvement in an illegal common gaming house in Mount Lawley which was raided in April 2023.

Casino licensee found suitable by the Racing and Gaming Minister

Jul 8, 2025

Racing and Gaming Minister Paul Papalia has found Crown Perth to be a suitable licensee to operate the Perth Casino. The finding was made as recommended by the Gaming and Wagering Commission (GWC) of Western Australia pursuant to section 21Q of the Casino Control Act 1984.

Workers in high vis working on the drainage works at Geraldton Turf Club

Starting gates fly open for upgrades to regional racecourses in WA

Jul 8, 2025

Work is already underway at the Geraldton Turf Club as part of the WA Government’s commitment to invest $25.2 million dollars to upgrade regional racecourses and support the State’s racing industry in the regions.

A person holds a mobile phone with a sports betting app open on the screen. In the backgrounds is a TV with a sporting game on

Changes to online gambling harm advertising

Apr 9, 2025

In line with the Australian government's National Consumer Protection Framework (NCPF) for Online Wagering, the Gaming and Wagering Commission (GWC) has changed the messages online bookmakers must use to inform consumers about the potential harms associated with gambling.

Close up of a poker hand with a jack and an ace of spade, and some gambling chips

Cross-agency cooperation will target criminal activity in gambling industry

Apr 9, 2025

Three key Western Australian agencies have joined forces to bolster the integrity and monitoring of the gambling industry in the state.

close up of a table set with plates and wine glasses

Licensing tips for a smooth end-of-season wind up

Apr 9, 2025

With the summer sports season coming to an end, it’s an ideal time for licensees at clubs to review policies and guidelines to know their limits and boundaries ahead of the wind-ups and annual dinners.

Horses competing on a grassy horse racing track.

Consistent Gambling Messaging Notice 2025

Mar 24, 2025

Reducing harm caused by online wagering to Australian wagering customers

Shot of a bar manager and bartender checking the stock in the pub

Approved Responsible Service of Online Gambling Training Notice 2025

Mar 24, 2025

Reducing harm caused by online wagering to Australian wagering customers

A young female business owner stands for a portrait shot in a food and drink establishment in Perth, Australia.

Reminder: Good Friday trading

Mar 19, 2025

Licensees planning a special event for Good Friday have the opportunity to apply for an occasional liquor licence and trade without the requirement for liquor to be sold or supplied alongside a meal.

Gambling Regulations Amendments 2025

Feb 11, 2025

New gambling penalties, infringements, and National Consumer Protection Framework for Online Wagering statutory requirements take effect from 6 February 2025.

Proposed extension to Hillarys Protected Entertainment Precinct

Jan 15, 2025

Protected Entertainment Precinct (PEP) laws were introduced by the WA Government in December 2022 to increase public safety at popular entertainment areas in Western Australia, including Hillarys, Scarborough, Perth-Northbridge, Fremantle and Mandurah.

A close up of a pub front door with the sign "come in we are open'" on the door.

Gazetted Extended Trading

Jan 10, 2025

The Director of Liquor Licensing understands that certain times of the year bring increased demand for packaged liquor or liquor consumption on licensed premises, along with community expectations to access these premises.

Big race slots in from 2025

Dec 17, 2024

The 2025 WA racing calendar is set to boast a unique event, set to attract not only statewide interest but national and international interest.

Timelapse photo of an amusement ride at night

Precincts making Perth safer

Dec 17, 2024

More than 200 violent and anti-social offenders have been barred from five Protected Entertainment Precincts (PEPs) since laws to increase safety and reduce alcohol-related harm were introduced almost two years ago

Extended trading permits for summer

Dec 17, 2024

The hospitality industry is a major contributor to the vibrance of the WA community and extended trading permits (ETP) allows venues to capitalise on the sunshine and balmy nights.

Continued squeeze on overcrowding

Dec 17, 2024

Overcrowding at venues remains a concern because of the risk it represents for patrons and staff. The practice is unacceptable, and we will continue to take a hardline approach on those premises that ignore occupancy limits.

Landmark legislation to strengthen compliance powers

Dec 17, 2024

The Perth Casino Royal Commission found flaws in operating behaviour and levels of compliance monitoring and enforcement, so late last month it was great to see the Parliament of Western Australia pass legislation to address the findings of the detailed probe.

Aerial image showing a camper van driving through the Australian outback on a highway, Western Australia, Australia

Remember the register when travelling

Dec 17, 2024

The Banned Drinkers Register (BDR) has grown into one of the key tools to combat alcohol-related harm in WA.

When is a permit required to conduct a raffle?

Dec 17, 2024

We want organising your local sports club chook raffle or major club fundraiser to be as easy as possible.

Summer inspections ramping up

Dec 17, 2024

With the warmer weather and festive season upon us, Liquor Licensing inspectors will again be actively working with licensed premises to help them operate responsibly during a time that traditionally puts increased pressure on venues.

Fee deadline approaching

Dec 17, 2024

With 2024 entering its final days it’s time for a quick prompt that annual liquor licence fees are due.

Trust a winner for WA community

Dec 17, 2024

Forgetting to claim your winnings is not an ideal situation, but those unclaimed winnings can have a positive outcome for the local community.

Gambling Harm Awareness Week 2024

Oct 21, 2024

Today marks the start of Gambling Harm Awareness Week for 2024.

Young work in a hospitality venue stands next to a bar

Liquor licensing policy reform a big win for WA hospitality industry

Aug 29, 2024

Big changes to the Western Australia’s Director of Liquor Licensing (DLL) policies will make it easier for small and medium sized liquor hospitality and tourism operators to do business in WA.

Aboriginal community in the Pilbara says yes to alcohol ban

Jun 28, 2024

For the first time, the Aboriginal community of Strelley in the Pilbara has decided to ban alcohol to reduce harm to its residents and provide a place for healing.

Stock image of 8 beverage cans from the top

New Broome takeaway liquor restrictions

Jun 11, 2024

The Director of Liquor Licensing (DLL) Ms Lanie Chopping has determined to apply takeaway liquor sale restrictions and mandatory recording requirements for licensed premises in the Kimberley town of Broome.

New Derby takeaway liquor restrictions

Jun 11, 2024

The Director of Liquor Licensing (DLL) Ms Lanie Chopping has determined to apply takeaway liquor sale restrictions and mandatory recording requirements for licensed premises in the Kimberley town of Derby.

Notice of Extension of Remediation Period

Apr 16, 2024

On 26 March 2024, the Minister for Racing and Gaming, the Hon. Paul Papalia CSC MLA, announced his decision to extend the initial 2-year remediation period for the casino licensee.

New Chair appointed to the Gaming and Wagering Commission

Mar 26, 2024

The government has announced the appointment of highly respected former Deputy Police Commissioner Gary Dreibergs for a three-year term.

New community goes dry and 3 renew commitment

Mar 20, 2024

An Aboriginal community in the Pilbara is the latest to ban alcohol and joins 3 north west communities renewing their commitment to being alcohol free.

People toasting drinks at a table in a pub

Reminder: Good Friday trading

Mar 14, 2024

Under the Liquor Control Act 1988 (the Act), the specified trading hours for Good Friday are treated differently.

Extended trading for public holidays

Feb 16, 2024

As in past years the Director of Liquor Licensing (DLL), under the Liquor Control Act 1988, is issuing extended trading permits by way of a notice published in the Gazette for non-metropolitan liquor stores for selected Sundays in 2024.

Couple buying some wine at a bottle shop.

Liquor Control (Section 31) Notice 2023

Feb 16, 2024

Issued under the Liquor Control Act 1988 sections 31 (4) and (7) and 60 by the Director of Liquor Licensing.

Gambling chips on a green gambling table

Gaming house busts send strong message to illegal operators

Feb 14, 2024

Organisers and players involved in illegal gaming houses are being warned of the serious consequences they could face if caught breaking WA’s gaming laws.

Close up image of 6 bottle of beer with caps on, in a cardboard carry box

“Show Cause” notice issued to Broome and Derby liquor licensees restrictions

Jan 8, 2024

On 8 January 2024, the Director of Liquor Licensing (DLL) issued ‘show-cause’ notices to licensees in respect of 37 licensed premises in the Kimberley towns of Broome and Derby outlining proposed liquor sales restrictions under Section 64 of the Liquor Control Act 1988 (the Act). Separate notices proposed different restrictions for the two towns.

A shallow depth of field focus photograph of a gaming machine

Gaming and Wagering Commission Chair to depart

Dec 18, 2023

The State Government has announced Dr Michael Schaper has resigned as Chair of the Gaming and Wagering Commission (GWC).

A highway sign on a remote highway pointing down the road to the Mingullatharndo Community.

Mingullatharndo (Five Mile) goes dry to reduce alcohol-related harm

Nov 10, 2023

Mingullatharndo (Five Mile) in the Pilbara has become the latest liquor restricted community in Western Australia in response to concerns raised by local leaders and as part of the State Government’s ongoing action to reduce alcohol-related harm.

WA's strengthened Banned Drinkers Register passes Parliament

Nov 8, 2023

New laws to strengthen the Banned Drinkers Register passed through Parliament yesterday to improve its effectiveness in reducing alcohol-related harm.

Montage of a roulette wheel, playing cards and other gaming equipment.

Gaming and Wagering Commission

Oct 16, 2023

Bulletin 2/2023

A close up photo of a rugby ball with water droplets

Rugby fans score with extended trading hours during World Cup

Aug 22, 2023

Western Australian pubs and bars can apply for longer trading hours to show matches in the upcoming 2023 Rugby World Cup in a major win for fans of the sport.

New regulations to stamp out sly grogging in Carnarvon

Aug 14, 2023

New regulations have come into effect to stamp out sly grogging in Carnarvon, giving WA Police the power to immediately dispose of illegal alcohol when they stop and search a vehicle.

Gaming and Wagering Commission

Jul 26, 2023

Bulletin 1/1023

$10 betting cap now in force for electronic gaming machines on the main floor at Crown Casino Perth

Jul 25, 2023

The State Government continues to deliver reforms addressing concerns raised by the Perth Casino Royal Commission (PCRC), particularly around reducing the risk of gambling-related harm.

Gaming Community Trust Grants up to $50,000

Unclaimed gambling winnings to fund worthy community projects

May 30, 2023

Western Australian community projects will benefit from sharing in about $600,000 in unclaimed gambling winnings.

A map of WA with the Gascoyne, Pilbara, Kimberley and Goldfields regions highlighted. Text reads, 'Banned drinkers register. You must show approved photo ID to buy takeaway alcohol in the Kimberley, Pilbara, Goldfields, Carnarvon and Gascoyne Junction'.

Banned Drinkers Register rolls out in Carnarvon

May 22, 2023

The Banned Drinkers Register is now up and running in Carnarvon and Gascoyne Junction with buyers of takeaway alcohol required to show photo identification.

A crowd in Forrest Place watching a large puppet being moved.

Round 3 recipients announced for State Government’s CBD revitalisation grants

Apr 18, 2023

The State Government’s investment in revitalising the Perth CBD and Northbridge continues with a further 15 eligible businesses, property owners and not-for-profits sharing nearly $1 million of funding from the Perth CBD Revitalisation Grant Program.

Mature man hesitates while picking out beer from a store.

New legislation to strengthen WA’s Banned Drinkers Register

Mar 2, 2023

The State Government will introduce new legislation to strengthen the Banned Drinkers Register following trials in the Pilbara, Kimberley and Goldfields regions.

Director General Lanie Chopping with Dr Michael Schaper

New independent Chair of Gaming and Wagering Commission

Feb 23, 2023

The State Government has announced Dr Michael Schaper as the new independent Chair of the Gaming and Wagering Commission (GWC) — an appointment in response to the Perth Casino Royal Commission (PCRC).

Graphic with the words, "You're in a Protected Entertainment Precinct" and a background of out of focus lights at night

PEP's law to keep entertainment hotspots safer this festive season

Dec 22, 2022

New laws to ban violent thugs from popular entertainment precincts will come into effect on Christmas Eve, in a crackdown on anti-social behaviour just in time for the festive season.

Inquiries into Kimberley and Pilbara packaged liquor availability

Dec 16, 2022

WA’s Director of Liquor Licensing Lanie Chopping has proposed changes to the way packaged liquor is sold in some Kimberley towns, in her determination of 2 separate Inquiries under section 64 of the Liquor Control Act 1988 (the Act).

A close-up photo of someone at a laptop holding a credit card

How to pay your annual liquor licence fees

Dec 13, 2022

The department mailed out invoices for annual liquor licence fees on 16 November 2022, with payments due on or before 1 January 2023.

Liquor Control (Section 31) Notice 2022

Dec 12, 2022

Issued under the Liquor Control Act 1988 sections 31 (4) and (7) and 60 by the Director of Liquor Licensing.

Racing and Gaming Minister Tony Buti with Gaming and Wagering Commission Chair Lanie Chopping in the casino

Date announced for betting limits on electronic gaming machines

Nov 30, 2022

A $10 betting limit for Electronic Gaming Machines (EGMs) will be enforced at Crown Casino from 1 July 2023.

Image of maps on easels showing the area of the Protected Entertainment Precincts

Protected Entertainment Precincts pass Parliament

Nov 30, 2022

Laws to enhance safety in Western Australia's popular entertainment precincts by banning perpetrators of violent or threatening behaviour have passed through Parliament.

Close up image of a bartender pouring a beer from a tap.

The next chapter of WA’s liquor laws — have your say

Nov 17, 2022

Western Australia's small bars — which transformed laneways, activated entertainment precincts, and gave rise to a more sophisticated drinking culture — have celebrated their 15th year.

Liquor Control (Section 31) Notice 2021 has expired

Nov 4, 2022

On health advice, Western Australia’s State of Emergency for the COVID-19 pandemic ended at 12.01am, the morning of Friday 4 November 2022. As a result, the Liquor Control (Section 31) Notice expired at this time.

Protected Entertainment Precincts legislation introduced to parliament

Oct 27, 2022

The State Government has introduced the Liquor Control Amendment (Protected Entertainment Precincts) Bill 2022 in Parliament.

What are you gambling with?

Oct 17, 2022

With Gambling Harm Awareness Week 2022 kicking off today, Western Australians are being encouraged to recognise the warning signs of gambling-related harm and seek help.

Independent Monitor appointed to oversee casino remediation

Oct 12, 2022

The State Government has appointed the Independent Monitor to oversee remediation at Perth's casino following the Royal Commission Final Report handed down earlier this year.

Have a say on Banned Drinkers Register

Sep 29, 2022

A consultation on options to strengthen the Banned Drinkers Register (BDR) has been launched after an independent evaluation of the scheme’s trial in the Pilbara.

New legislation aims to provide safer entertainment precincts

Sep 28, 2022

Proposed new legislation will exclude convicted offenders and perpetrators of antisocial behaviour in designated Protected Entertainment Precincts from entering those areas.

2 men at a bar with 2 beers served by bar owner

Extra cheers for FIFA World Cup fans

Sep 23, 2022

Western Australia’s hospitality and bar scene will receive a major boost thanks to the State Government’s one-off extended trading permits policy for the upcoming 2022 FIFA World Cup football (soccer) games.

Licensed trading hours for the upcoming day of mourning

Sep 15, 2022

Licensees are advised that the permitted trading hours on Thursday 22 September 2022 will be the same as any other Thursday.

Inquiries into Kimberley and Pilbara packaged liquor availability

Aug 3, 2022

Deadline for industry submissions extended until 1 September 2022.

State Government appoints 2 new Gaming and Wagering Commission members

Jul 4, 2022

Racing and Gaming Minister Dr Tony Buti has appointed 2 new members to the Gaming and Wagering Commission (GWC), bringing the total number of appointees this year to 4.

Open for business

Jul 4, 2022

Activating Alfresco aids COVID recovery.

Blackstone granted WA approval to proceed with acquisition of Crown Resorts

Jun 10, 2022

Western Australia's independent casino regulator — the Gaming and Wagering Commission — and the Racing and Gaming Minister have granted the necessary approvals to facilitate the acquisition of Crown Resorts by Blackstone Group.

A card with logos and text reading, 'Goldfields Banned Drinkers Register now in effect. No ID, no purchase.'

Goldfields Banned Drinkers Register trial officially starts

Mar 9, 2022

The Goldfields Banned Drinkers Register (BDR) trial is now in full effect, meaning all customers require approved photo identification to buy takeaway alcohol.

Low angle view of illuminated disco ball at night

Level 1 COVID-19 Business Assistance Package

Feb 24, 2022

The State Government has announced almost $67 million for a new COVID-19 Business Assistance Package for businesses adversely affected by increasing cases and the necessary implementation of Level 1 public health and social measures.

New regulations to tighten alcohol home deliveries

Feb 22, 2022

The State Government has introduced new regulations to strengthen requirements around the home delivery of liquor to help minimise alcohol-related harm.

Liquor Control (Section 31) Notice 2021

Dec 17, 2021

Issued under the Liquor Control Act 1988 sections 31 (4) and (7) and 60 by the Director of Liquor Licensing.

Goldfields third WA region to trial Banned Drinkers Register

Dec 16, 2021

The State Government's Banned Drinkers Register will begin rolling out across the northern Goldfields this week, following trials in the Pilbara and Kimberley regions.

Availability of packaged liquor in the Kimberley and Pilbara regions

Dec 16, 2021

Consultation period for sale of packaged liquor extended.

Tourism operators celebrated at Perth Airport WA Tourism Awards

Nov 15, 2021

Tourism business founder Troy Thomas was posthumously awarded the Sir David Brand Medal for Tourism at the 2021 Perth Airport WA Tourism Awards last night.

Responsible Gambling Awareness Week showing an illustration of a man and a dog

Spot the signs and show gambling who’s boss

Nov 8, 2021

As Responsible Gambling Awareness Week (RGAW) kicks off today, the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries is encouraging Western Australians to recognise the warning signs before gambling becomes a problem.

Cruising the dirt roads on the Dampier Peninsula near Cape Leveque in northern Western Australia.

State Government moves to stamp out sly grogging in the Kimberley

Sep 16, 2021

WA Police will have the discretion to seize and dispose of illegal alcohol on the spot under new regulations to stamp out sly grogging in regional and remote communities.

A group of men in a pub, one holding up a smartphone displaying an app

Shire support for Banned Drinkers Register

Aug 25, 2021

The Shire of Broome has supported the launch of two-year alcohol restrictions, in place in Broome and Derby.

Improving occupational recognition across the nation

Jul 2, 2021

A new national Automatic Mutual Recognition (AMR) of Occupational Registration scheme will be in place for a limited number of occupations in New South Wales, Victoria, the Australian Capital Territory and the Northern Territory from 1 July, 2021.

Hand picking a bottle of wine up from shelf

Restrictions on the sale of packaged liquor due to COVID-19 — Kimberley region

May 11, 2021

The Director of Liquor Licensing has reviewed the previous restrictions on liquor purchases in the Kimberley put in place to support measures taken due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Banned Drinkers Register and Takeaway Alcohol Management System trial to commence in the Kimberley

Banned Drinkers Register technology rolls out in the Kimberley

May 1, 2021

Following a successful rollout to its trial in the Pilbara, the Banned Drinkers Register will begin rolling out across the Kimberley this week.

Infographic for the post-lockdown transition

COVID-19 update: post-lockdown transition

Apr 27, 2021

LG Alert

Following an announcement by the State Government, post-lockdown measures will come into effect from 12:01am Tuesday 27 April until 12.01am, Saturday morning 1 May.

Statement addressing matters related to Crown Perth and the report of the Bergin Inquiry

Feb 16, 2021

The Gaming and Wagering Commission of Western Australia (GWC) met today to consider the report of the Bergin Inquiry.

Banned Drinkers Register to be trialled in the Kimberley

Jan 6, 2021

The Kimberley is the next Western Australian region set to benefit from the State Government's trial of a nearly $1 million Banned Drinkers Register (BDR) expected to start this May.

Minister Paul Papalia MLA at a liquor store

Trial of Banned Drinkers Register in the Pilbara begins today

Dec 1, 2020

The State Government's Banned Drinkers Register trial in the Pilbara region has begun today.

Mandatory contact registers in WA

Nov 25, 2020

LG Alert

The State Government has announced that mandatory contact registers at relevant businesses and venues will be introduced from 5 December 2020.

How to pay your annual liquor licence fees

Nov 23, 2020

The department mailed out invoices for annual liquor licence fees on 17 November 2020, with payments due on or before 1 January 2021.

New exemptions introduced to continue WA’s strong recovery

Oct 19, 2020

On the advice of the Chief Health Officer, the State Government will extend Phase 4 of the COVID-19 roadmap but will now allow exemptions to the 2 square metre rule at selected venues to continue Western Australia's economic recovery and keep WA safe and strong.

Responsible Gambling Awareness Week 19-25 October

Partnership provides support to problem gamblers

Oct 19, 2020

As Responsible Gambling Awareness Week kicks off for another year, Western Australians are reminded that support is available for those experiencing gambling related harm.

Pilbara banned drinkers register trial to launch in December

Aug 24, 2020

The State Government's trial of a banned drinkers register (BDR) in the Pilbara region will launch on December 1 following the appointment of a Western Australian company to deliver the program.

Phase 3 of COVID-19 roadmap to commence from Saturday, June 6

Jun 2, 2020

The State Government has announced Phase 3 of the roadmap to ease COVID-19 restrictions in WA, with significant changes coming into effect from Saturday, June 6.

RGL Alert — Covid-19 responses

Apr 20, 2020

In the interest of public health and safety, the State Government has developed measures and responses to the COVID-19 pandemic.

New support for small businesses during liquor restrictions

Mar 27, 2020

Six-month occasional liquor licenses to allow for sale of liquor with takeaway meals. Liquor restrictions adjusted for cellar door sales. Hotline and email set up for licensees with queries about packaged liquor.

The beautiful historic buildings of the bustling port town of Fremantle in Western Australia.

Instructions to close certain places of business, worship and entertainment

Mar 23, 2020

LG Alert

Under the Emergency Management Act 2005, the Commissioner of Police and State Emergency Coordinator, Chris Dawson, has issued directions regarding the closure of various establishments to the public in WA to limit the spread of COVID-19.

Pilbara Banned Drinkers Register trial tender launched

Feb 21, 2020

The State Government is progressing the implementation of a trial of a Banned Drinkers Register (BDR) in the Pilbara, with the release today of a tender request outlining the requirements of the system.

Liquor Control (Section 31) Notice 2020

Jan 24, 2020

Issued under the Liquor Control Act 1988 sections 31 (4) and (7) and 60 by the Director of Liquor Licensing.

How to pay your annual liquor licence fees

Nov 12, 2019

The department mailed out invoices for annual liquor licence fees on 12 November 2019, with payments due on or before 1 January 2020.

New provisions relating to packaged liquor outlets

Nov 1, 2019

Concern regarding the impact of the proliferation of large packaged liquor outlets on the community has resulted in new legislative provisions that allow regulations to be prescribed setting out criteria that apply to applications for large packaged liquor outlets.

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