Sports betting increase anchors jump in WA TAB wagering revenue
The WA TAB remained financially stable in 2024/25, thanks to a 25 per cent increase in sports betting, according to figures in the latest annual report from Racing and Wagering Western Australia (RWWA).
Racing and Wagering Western Australia narrowed its total comprehensive loss to $17.5 million in 2024/25, down from $40 million the previous year, as stronger wagering revenue helped offset rising operational costs.
WA TAB revenue climbed to $354.3 million, up from $344.4 million in 2023/24, underpinned by a 25 per cent surge in sports betting following the launch of a new Same Game Multi (SGM) product for AFL.
The increase in sports turnover underscored a shift in wagering patterns, with punters increasingly favouring digital platforms.
RWWA, which differs from other Australian racing regulators as it operates its own wagering arm, says that in keeping with global trends, SGM wagering has tapped into a growing appetite for combination bets in AFL and NRL markets.
Modest growth across metropolitan and regional betting markets further supported the rise.
Other revenue streams also contributed, lifting total income 3.8 per cent to $398.3 million.
Despite the revenue boost, expenses rose slightly to $576.5 million, driven by wagering services, grants and subsidies to racing, and distributions to racing and sports.
Betting tax costs climbed to $53.4 million from $49.7 million, reflecting the ongoing regulatory levy on RWWA’s operations.
State government contributions helped temper losses. WA racefields income came in at $110.0 million, slightly below last year’s $111.9 million, while additional betting tax receipts rose to $39.7 million from $37.7 million.
As growth in WA TAB receipts and supplementary income streams helped stabilise the body’s finances despite persistent high operating costs, RWWA chair Karen Farley said the figures reflected the current complicated state of Australia’s wagering and revenue landscape.
“The environment we operate in is increasingly complex,” she said. “Balancing commercial outcomes with support for the state’s racing industry and regional communities remains our top priority.”
Farley says maintaining a dual focus on commercial discipline and industry support remains central.
“Our purpose is clear. We are here to ensure the long-term viability of WA’s racing codes while navigating both financial pressures and the changing expectations of the community we serve,” she said.
While wagering turnover grew, RWWA highlighted that rising operating costs – including technology upgrades, staffing, and welfare initiatives – have put pressure on net margins.
RWWA continued to modernise its wagering platforms throughout 2024/25 with mobile app enhancements, live-streaming services, and integrated betting analytics.
These investments are expected to improve customer engagement and compete with national and international online wagering providers.
“We are navigating a period of transformation,” she said. “Our investments in infrastructure, welfare, and technology will ensure WA racing remains vibrant and competitive for years to come.”
Total funding across the three codes came to $228.3 million, a marginal decrease from $229.6 million in 2023/24.
Thoroughbred racing benefited from an increase, receiving $151.3 million (up from $146.4 million), while harness funding fell to $45.2 million and greyhound funding dropped to $31.8 million.
Activity across the three codes declined slightly compared with 2023/24, with 841 meetings, 7768 races, and 66513 starters, down from 881 meetings, 8370 races, and 70728 starters.
As RWWA’s wagering business continued to hold steady, chief executive Ian Edwards said the organisation faced rising costs.
“We remain committed to long-term sustainability, transparency, and disciplined investment as consumer expectations and regulatory requirements evolve,” he said.
Regional clubs benefited during the year, with $25.2 million committed through the State government’s Regional Racing Infrastructure Fund.
RWWA also invested heavily in key aspects of the WA TAB business, including financial crime prevention, anti-money laundering protocols, and responsible-wagering tools.
Animal and participant welfare remained a priority.
One per cent of the advertised prize money across all codes funded initiatives, including a mandatory equine welfare learning module, greyhound track safety studies, and track refurbishments to reduce injury risk.
Related Articles
Sydney’s trainers hit with modest rent increases after ATC compromise
The Australian Turf Club will increase stable rents in line with CPI after backing away from a 10 per cent hike that was planned last August.
ATC wins court reprieve from administration until at least February
The Australian Turf Club will stay out of Racing NSW-imposed administration until at least February, after the Supreme Court of NSW issued a new order preventing any further action until the matter can go to a further hearing.
New blood at Racing NSW – Olympian and business veteran join board
The NSW state government has announced replacements for Garry Charny and Tony Shepherd on the Racing NSW board, with an Olympian and a Venues NSW board member joining the thoroughbred industry regulator on four-year terms.