Gaming and Wagering Commission chair resigns

Independent Gaming and Wagering Commission chair Michael Schaper will leave the role just one year into a three-year term, the state government has revealed.

Dr Schaper will finish in the role in February, with a brief ministerial statement from Racing and Gaming Minister Paul Papalia citing other commitments as reason for his resignation.

“I would like to thank Dr Schaper for his contribution to gambling regulation during his time as chair of the Gaming and Wagering Commission,” Mr Papalia said.

“I am confident the good work that has been progressed will continue and I look forward to working with the GWC and its new chair in 2024.”

Dr Schaper was appointed to the commission in February as its first independent chairperson, following legislative change to allow an independent chair off the back of the Perth Casino Royal Commission.

His term when appointed was for three years.

The GWC chair role was previously filled by Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries director general Lanie Chopping.

Dr Schaper was an independent contributor to the state’s Review of Western Australia’s COVID-19 management and response report tabled in August.

He is also leading the federal government’s ongoing franchising code of conduct review.

The Gaming and Wagering Commission is responsible for administering law relating to gaming and wagering in WA.