$10 betting cap in force for electronic gaming machines at Crown

TheState Government continues to deliver reforms addressing concerns raised by thePerth Casino Royal Commission (PCRC), particularly around reducing the risk ofgambling-related harm.

Since1 July this year, a cap of $10 per bet has been introduced for all electronicgaming machines (EGMs) across the main gaming floor at Crown Casino Perth.

EGMsare a popular form of gambling for visitors to Crown Casino Perth. In the2019-20 financial year they generated approximately 52 per cent, or $206million, of the casino's gross income.

TheCrown Casino Perth is currently allowed to have up to 2,500 EGMs across itsgaming floor, which varies depending on their business needs.

Thepopularity of EGMs is an area of concern for at-risk gamblers who are unable tomoderate or control their betting.

TheState Government is also planning to introduce further EGM harm minimisationmeasures including:

TheCook Government remains firm on its commitment to prohibit EGMs outside of the CrownCasino Perth.

Comments attributed toRacing and Gaming Minister Reece Whitby:

"WAis committed to having strong measures to promote responsible gambling and protectat-risk gamblers, but we can do – and are doing – more.

"Bettingon electronic gaming machines on the casino's main floor is a popular activity andan identified area of concern when it comes to at-risk gamblers.

"Harmminimisation was one of the key recommendation themes of the Perth Casino RoyalCommission and we are working on introducing further measures, including pre-setloss limits and pre-set time limits, by 2025."

Comments attributed toGaming and Wagering Commission Chair Dr Michael Schaper:

"TheGaming and Wagering Commission is committed to fully exploring all options to reducethe harm caused by problem gambling.

"Gamblingproblems, like all addictions, are complex and there is no single solution. Buthelping at-risk gamblers, by reducing the amount of money they can bet in onego on an electronic gaming machine, is a responsible harm minimisation measure.

"Itwon't take away the odd recreational bet that many people in the communityenjoy as a social outing, but it will help prevent that now-and-again punt frombecoming an everyday problem."