Explore why Western Australia restricts pokies to Crown Perth Casino and how this approach impacts gambling in the state.
Western Australia occupies a unique position within Australia’s broader gambling landscape, particularly regarding the presence and regulation of electronic gaming machines—commonly known as "pokies." While most Australian states and territories permit pokies in pubs, clubs, and casinos, Western Australia has maintained a strict ban on these machines outside of its sole casino, Crown Perth (formerly Burswood Casino). This distinctive regulatory approach reflects the state’s ongoing commitment to minimizing gambling-related harm and maintaining a controlled gambling environment. Understanding the legal status, historical context, and social impact of pokies in Western Australia provides valuable insight into the state’s approach to gambling regulation and its divergence from other jurisdictions.
Western Australia does have pokies, but their presence is highly restricted. The state’s legislation prohibits the operation of electronic gaming machines (EGMs) outside of Crown Perth Casino. This means that pokies are not available in pubs, clubs, or other venues across the state, a policy that sets Western Australia apart from other Australian states. The ban is enshrined in the Casino Control Act 1984 (WA), which explicitly prohibits poker machines in venues other than the licensed casino. The Western Australian Government has repeatedly reaffirmed its commitment to this ban, emphasizing that there will be no weakening of this policy.
The ban on pokies outside of Crown Perth Casino dates back to 1985, when the state government introduced legislation to restrict the proliferation of electronic gaming machines. This decision was driven by concerns about the social and economic harms associated with widespread pokie use, including increased rates of problem gambling and financial hardship. Over the years, the government has consistently upheld this ban, despite periodic calls from some industry stakeholders and community groups to relax the restrictions. The policy has been reviewed and reaffirmed multiple times, most recently in response to recommendations from the Perth Casino Royal Commission, which highlighted the importance of minimizing gambling-related harm.
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As of 2025, the only place in Western Australia where pokies are legally available is Crown Perth Casino. The casino operates a significant number of electronic gaming machines, which are subject to strict regulatory oversight. The Western Australian Government has implemented additional measures to ensure responsible gambling practices at the casino, including mandatory carded play on EGMs, which will be fully implemented by 1 December 2025. This requirement is designed to enhance player protection and reduce the risk of problem gambling. Outside of Crown Perth, pokies remain illegal, and the state continues to enforce this ban through its regulatory framework.
The ban on pokies outside of Crown Perth Casino has had a notable impact on problem gambling rates in Western Australia. Studies have shown that the state has lower rates of problem gambling compared to other Australian states with widespread pokie availability. The restricted access to electronic gaming machines is widely regarded as a key factor in this outcome, as it limits opportunities for excessive gambling and reduces the visibility and accessibility of pokies in the community. The government’s focus on harm reduction is further supported by initiatives such as mandatory training for casino staff and the expansion of support services for individuals affected by gambling-related issues.
When compared to other Australian states, Western Australia stands out for its low per capita gambling losses. States like New South Wales and Queensland, where pokies are widely available in pubs and clubs, report significantly higher rates of gambling losses per capita. For example, New South Wales has over 95,000 pokies spread across thousands of venues, contributing to higher levels of gambling-related harm. In contrast, Western Australia’s controlled approach has resulted in lower gambling losses and a reduced burden on public health and social services. This comparison underscores the effectiveness of the state’s regulatory model in minimizing the negative impacts of gambling.
The operation of pokies at Crown Perth Casino is governed by a robust regulatory framework overseen by the Gaming and Wagering Commission of Western Australia (GWC). The GWC is responsible for licensing, compliance, and enforcement, ensuring that the casino adheres to strict standards for responsible gambling and player protection. The commission reviews and monitors all aspects of casino operations, including the management of electronic gaming machines, and has the authority to issue directions and amendments to casino regulations. The mandatory carded play requirement, set to be fully implemented by 1 December 2025, is a key component of this regulatory framework, designed to enhance transparency and accountability.
Western Australia has implemented a range of initiatives to promote responsible gambling practices and support individuals affected by gambling-related harm. These include mandatory training for casino staff, the provision of self-exclusion programs, and the availability of counseling and support services. The government has also expanded the capacity and capability of the GWC to strengthen its role as a regulator and ensure that community gaming stakeholders meet their regulatory obligations. These efforts reflect the state’s commitment to minimizing gambling-related harm and fostering a safe and responsible gambling environment.
Public opinion in Western Australia remains largely supportive of the ban on pokies outside of Crown Perth Casino. Surveys and community consultations have consistently shown that a majority of Western Australians favor maintaining the current restrictions, citing concerns about problem gambling and the social costs associated with widespread pokie use. However, there are ongoing debates about the potential economic benefits of relaxing the ban, particularly in regional areas where tourism and hospitality industries could benefit from increased gambling activity. These discussions are likely to continue as the state reviews its gambling policies in response to changing social and economic conditions.
While the Western Australian Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the pokies ban, there is always the possibility of future regulatory changes. The government regularly reviews its gambling policies and considers recommendations from regulatory bodies and community stakeholders. Any potential changes would need to balance the economic benefits of expanded gambling with the need to minimize gambling-related harm. The introduction of new technologies, such as online gaming and digital wagering, may also influence future regulatory decisions, as the government seeks to adapt to evolving consumer preferences and industry trends.
Western Australia has pokies, but their presence is strictly limited to Crown Perth Casino. The state’s unique regulatory environment, characterized by a ban on pokies outside the casino and a strong focus on harm reduction, sets it apart from other Australian jurisdictions. This approach has contributed to lower rates of problem gambling and reduced gambling losses per capita, reflecting the effectiveness of the state’s controlled gambling model. As Western Australia continues to review its gambling policies, the ban on pokies outside Crown Perth remains a cornerstone of its regulatory framework, highlighting the state’s commitment to responsible gambling and community well-being.
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