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Latest news from the department.

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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.
a montage of cards, lights and poker machine screens

Increased penalties to strengthen gambling laws in WA

Feb 5, 2025
The WA Government has increased enforcement powers and penalties to bolster the regulation of Western Australia’s gambling industry through law reform.
A pair of hands holding a phone with an online betting website on the screen

Call out to BudgetBet clients owed money

Jan 31, 2025
The Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries (DLGSC) and the Gaming and Wagering Commission of Western Australia (GWC) are appealing to clients who are owed money by former online gambling platform BudgetBet (licence number BM001279) to come forward and register their claim.
Gary Dreibergs, Chair, Gaming and Wagering Commission and Paul Papalia, Minister for Police; Corrective Services; Racing and Gaming; Defence Industry; Veterans Issues

Gaming authorities raid an illegal high-stakes poker venue in Perth

Jun 7, 2024
Gaming authorities and the WA Police Force have carried out a raid on a suspected illegal gaming house, shutting down a high-stakes poker event at an industrial premises in Wangara.
Portrait photo of Gary Dreibergs

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.
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.
Page reviewed 10 June 2025