The WA Government has withdrawn its decision to sell the Western Australian TAB.
The State Government has announced it will retain ownership of the WA TAB, which will continue to be operated by Racing and Wagering Western Australia (RWWA) in the State’s interests.
WA Premier, Mark McGowan said the Government initially recommenced the sale process for the WA TAB in good faith and at the request of the RWWA Board.
“Significant time and effort have been committed in an attempt to deliver an outcome that balances the long-term interests of both the State and local racing industry – despite exhaustive efforts a balanced outcome cannot be achieved,” the Premier said.
“Following the detailed assessment and process, the responsible and prudent decision, which is in the interests of Western Australians, is for the State to retain ownership of the WA TAB.
“We always said that we would commit to end years of uncertainty and a sale of the public-owned TAB would only be undertaken if it could secure the long-term interests of our racing industry and be in the interests of the WA community.”
Racing and Gaming Minister, Tony Buti said the Government had made it clear that any sale would need to be in the best interests of both the racing industry and the taxpayer.
“Unfortunately, by the end of the market process, we did not have certainty this could be achieved,” Minister Buti said.
“I would like to thank Racing and Wagering Western Australia and the racing industry reference group for their collaborative and constructive approach in working through the sale process.”
