Western Australia
Who’s in Charge?
The Gaming and Wagering Commission of Western Australia regulates the industry according to the following acts:
- the Betting Control Act 1954;
- the Casino Control Act 1984;
- the Gaming and Wagering Commission Act 1987;
- and the Racing and Wagering Western Australia Act 2003.
The Gaming and Wagering Commission issues and oversees licences, permits, certificates and permissions for operators, employees and venues. The Commission keeps these under review and collects all related fees and charges. They also have a duty with regards to responsible gambling, taking steps to provide information on gambling and its social effects as well as working to minimise harm in the community.
The Commission website provides extensive resources including: PDFs of official rules for games requiring permits or licensing; applications; information kits; and financial return forms.
Fun facts: If you look up “mouse racing” on Wikipedia, you learn that a) yes, it really is a thing; and b) that the Western Australia Mouse Racing Association was founded in 1972. It fails to mention that mouse racing, along with bingo, Two-Up and many other games often used in fund raising, are covered under sections 103, 107 and 108 of the Gaming and Wagering Commission Act 1987. Now you know.
Problem Gambling
The Problem Gambling Support Services Committee provides 24/7 telephone, online and face-to-face help to those affected by problem gambling. All these service are confidential and freely provided.