❓ Hon Michelle Boylan asks about illegal gambling operations in WA since 2021-22, including identification, shutdowns, seizures, license suspensions, referrals to police, inspections, and staffing. The Department provides limited data, citing data collection improvements from July 2023.
AnsweredQoN 508Legislative Council
QuestionView source ↗
(1) For each financial year since 2021–22, how many illegal gambling operations have been identified or shut down in Western Australia? (2) For each financial year since 2021–22, what was the total value of cash, casino chips, gaming equipment, or related items seized from illegal gambling operations? (3) For each financial year since 2021–22, how many individuals employed within the casino or gaming industry had their licences suspended or cancelled due to involvement in illegal gambling operations? (4) For each financial year since 2021–22, how many referrals were made by the Department of Racing, Gaming and Liquor to Western Australian Police in relation to illegal gambling activities? (5) For each financial year since 2021–22, how many compliance or enforcement inspections were conducted by the Department in relation to suspected illegal gambling venues? (6) For each financial year since 2021–22, how many dedicated Department officers were allocated to investigations and compliance activities relating to illegal gambling?
AnswerView source ↗
Answered
14 October 2025
Responded by
Minister for the Environment representing the Minister for Racing and Gaming
Response time
7 days
The Department of Local Government, Industry Regulation and Safety advises:
(1)
(2)
(3)
Casino Employee Licences revoked or suspended:
Gaming Operator Certificates (individuals) cancelled or suspended:
Gaming Supplier Certificates (corporate entities) cancelled or suspended:
(4) Reliable data on illegal gambling referrals (intelligence reports) is available from July 2023 onwards, reflecting the commencement of more structured joint operations and improved management of intelligence holdings. While earlier referrals and joint operational activity occurred, comprehensive records prior to July 2023 are not readily reportable.
(5)
(6) The Department of Local Government, Industry Regulation and Safety maintains a dedicated investigations team and compliance inspectors who are authorised officers of the Gaming and Wagering Commission in accordance with section 21(1) of the Gaming and Wagering Commission Act 1987 , who work collaboratively with the Western Australia Police Force. The number of staff involved varies according to operational requirements and specific investigations.
(1)
(2)
(3)
Casino Employee Licences revoked or suspended:
Gaming Operator Certificates (individuals) cancelled or suspended:
Gaming Supplier Certificates (corporate entities) cancelled or suspended:
(4) Reliable data on illegal gambling referrals (intelligence reports) is available from July 2023 onwards, reflecting the commencement of more structured joint operations and improved management of intelligence holdings. While earlier referrals and joint operational activity occurred, comprehensive records prior to July 2023 are not readily reportable.
(5)
(6) The Department of Local Government, Industry Regulation and Safety maintains a dedicated investigations team and compliance inspectors who are authorised officers of the Gaming and Wagering Commission in accordance with section 21(1) of the Gaming and Wagering Commission Act 1987 , who work collaboratively with the Western Australia Police Force. The number of staff involved varies according to operational requirements and specific investigations.
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