Key Moments:
- The Gaming and Wagering Commission of Western Australia (GWC) has expanded its leadership team with three new appointments.
- Paul Steel becomes the GWC’s first full-time member and will continue oversight of Crown Perth’s remediation efforts.
- Melanie Cave and Bill Johnston join the commission, bringing legal and government experience, alongside several re-appointed members.
Expanding Regulatory Expertise
The Gaming and Wagering Commission of Western Australia (GWC) has broadened its capabilities by appointing new members, enhancing its ability to oversee the state’s gaming sector. Notably, the commission now includes former police assistant commissioner Paul Steel, lawyer Melanie Cave, and former government minister Bill Johnston.
Profiles of Newly Appointed Members
Paul Steel, until recently the independent monitor of Crown Perth’s remediation activities, makes history as the GWC’s inaugural full-time member. Alongside his commission responsibilities, Steel will maintain his oversight of the casino’s operations to ensure they comply with all legal and responsible gaming standards.
Melanie Cave adds substantial legal expertise to the commission, with a background in commercial and property law. Her experience extends to managing strategic infrastructure projects on both a national and international scale.
Bill Johnston brings 17 years of ministerial experience to the table, having managed a broad portfolio during his time as a member of Parliament. He concluded his legislative career prior to the March 2025 state election.
Continuity and Leadership
The new appointees join existing chair Gary Dreibergs and several members who have been reappointed: Katie Hodson-Thomas, Colin Murphy, Helen Creed, and Sam Buckeridge.
Government Perspective
“I recently announced that Crown Perth was deemed a suitable entity to continue holding a gaming licence under the Casino Control Act 1984. This was the result of the casino undergoing an extensive remediation program to achieve suitability,” said Racing and Gaming Minister Paul Papalia.
“Mr Steel’s appointment will allow him to continue his good work overseeing Crown and help the Gaming and Wagering Commission remain focused on the ongoing effectiveness of operational reforms.
“The new appointments to the GWC ensure it has the necessary skills, expertise and resources to effectively regulate the gambling industry in WA.”
| Name | Background | Role on GWC |
|---|---|---|
| Paul Steel | Former police force assistant commissioner; recent Crown Perth remediation monitor | First full-time member; oversight of Crown Perth activities |
| Melanie Cave | Lawyer specializing in commercial/property law and infrastructure projects | Commission member |
| Bill Johnston | Former government minister; 17 years’ experience; former MP | Commission member |
| Gary Dreibergs | Current chair | Chair |
| Katie Hodson-Thomas | Re-appointed | Member |
| Colin Murphy | Re-appointed | Member |
| Helen Creed | Re-appointed | Member |
| Sam Buckeridge | Re-appointed | Member |
- Author
Daniel Williams
