Cruise passengers can now access the full casino experience off the Western Australian coast under changes to the Gaming and Wagering Commission Regulations 1988. The amendments, which have officially come into effect, allow gaming floors to be open when cruise ships travel between WA ports.
“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. The McGowan Government has lifted gaming restrictions, committed to upgrading Fremantle and Geraldton ports and is currently working to resolve other infrastructure issues.” Tourism and Racing and Gaming Minister Paul Papalia commented.
Minister Papalia explained that the former restriction banning gaming while the ship is within 12 nautical miles of the WA coastline has also been amended so that gambling is only prohibited when the vessel is within 12 nautical miles of the port where it intends to berth or anchor. The Minister added that in the past, gaming restraints have been a drawback for the industry and the McGowan Government says the changes will make cruising more appealing to both providers and passengers. A new provision has been added which specifies that gaming must be an ancillary service, meaning cruises ‘to nowhere’ will remain banned.