Racing, gaming and liquor news

Latest news from the department.

All news

Casino licensee found suitable by the Racing and Gaming Minister

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.
WA State Parliament

Gambling Regulations Amendments 2025

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

Proposed extension to Hillarys Protected Entertainment Precinct

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

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.
Horse racing

Big race slots in from 2025

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

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
A cafe at night

Extended trading permits for summer

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.
Crowded pub

Continued squeeze on overcrowding

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.
Parliament of Western Australia

Landmark legislation to strengthen compliance powers

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.
Page reviewed 14 July 2025