WA gambling go-ahead

CRUISE ships can now open their gaming floors while travelling between Western Australian ports under changes to the Gaming and Wagering Commission Regulations 1988.

Under the amendment, gaming is only banned when the ship is within 12 nautical miles of the port where it intends to berth or anchor, where previously the restriction applied while the ship was within 12 nautical miles of the WA coastline.

A new provision has also been added which specifies that gaming must be an ancillary service, meaning cruises ‘to nowhere’ will remain banned.

Tourism and Racing and Gaming Minister for Western Australia Paul Papalia said the changes would make cruising more appealing to providers and pax.

“Cruise shipping is a vital part of WA’s tourism industry, bringing in millions of dollars to the State’s economy annually and creating jobs,” Papalia said.

“The McGowan Govt has lifted gaming restrictions, committed to upgrading Fremantle and Geraldton ports and is currently working to resolve other infrastructure issues.”

A spokesperson for Carnival Australia welcomed the WA Government’s decision, noting it was “a common sense decision that brings WA into line with comparable cruise markets”.

“Gaming is just one part of the overall cruise experience but this decision means that cruise passengers can have access to the full suite of on board activities,” the spokesperson told CW.