Legislative Assembly Question on Notice 4492

On 12 February 2019, the Hon Dr Mike Nahan MLA asked the Hon Paul Papalia CSC MLA, Minister for Racing and Gaming, for the following information:

In relation to the TAB, can the Minister advise:

(a)    What was the number of outlets operating in Western Australia each year for the period 2005 to 2018 (at 30 June 2018);

(b)    What was the total number of bets taken each year at TAB outlets for the period 2005 to 2018 (to 30 June 2018);

(c)    What was the total value of bets taken each year at TAB outlets for the period 2005 to 2018 (to 30 June 2018):

(i)      What was the total value of bets taken each year for the period 2005 to 2018 on horse racing;

(ii)     What was the total value of bets taken each year for the period 2005 to 2018 on trots;

(iii)   What was the total value of bets taken each year for the period 2005 to 2018 on greyhound racing; and

(iv)   What was the total value of bets taken each year for the period 2005 to 2018 on sporting events;

(d)    What was the total number and total value of bets placed with the TAB via telephone each year for the period 2005 to 2018;

(e)    What was the total number and total value of bets placed with the TAB via the internet, either through www.ozbet.com.au or the TABTouch App, each year for the period 2005 to 2018;

(f)     What was the average gross profit for TAB outlets from gambling at TAB outlets each year for the period 2005 to 2018; and

(g)    Do TAB outlets receive any benefit from telephone or online gambling (including through www.ozbet.com.au or the TABTouch App), and if so what benefits are received?

On 19 March 2019, the Hon Paul Papalia CSC MLA, replied:

(a)    See tabled paper no [2300]

(b)    The information requested is not currently publicly available and could compromise the TAB’s competitive position if released. This is particularly pertinent given that, as the Member is aware, the McGowan Government is currently progressing the sale of the TAB. Therefore, I will not be providing this information.

(c-d) See answer to (a)

(e-f) See answer to (b)

(g) Yes. From 2005 to 2018 TAB outlets at various stages have received:

• • A per transaction commission for TAB account deposits and withdrawals
  • A per transaction commission for new TAB accounts, requiring verification of new account customer ID
  • Trailing commissions on sales from new TABtouch accounts opened at / linked to their agency
  • Sales commission on bets located in the agencies placed via TABtouch app on iPhones.