Are Private Poker Games Legal in Australia?

Private poker games are generally considered to be illegal in Australia. However, the legality of private poker games can vary depending on a number of factors, including the location of the game and how it is organized.

In general, private poker games are considered to be illegal under Australian law because they fall under the category of “unauthorised gambling”. This means that any form of gambling that is not explicitly authorized by the government is considered to be illegal.

However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, some states in Australia allow for “social gambling” among friends and family members. This means that if a group of friends get together and play poker for fun, without any money changing hands, then this would not be considered to be illegal.

PRO TIP:In Australia, private poker games are allowed in all states and territories as long as they are held in a private residence and not run for profit. Players can also use cash or chips to buy into the game, but any winnings must be paid out in chips only.

If you do decide to organize a private poker game in Australia, there are a few things that you should keep in mind in order to stay on the right side of the law. Firstly, you should make sure that no money changes hands during the game. This means that you should not charge an entry fee or take a rake from the pot.

Secondly, you should make sure that the game is held in a private location and is not open to the public. This means that you should not advertise your game or invite strangers to join.

Thirdly, you should make sure that all players are over 18 years old. Gambling laws in Australia prohibit anyone under 18 from participating in any form of gambling activity.

In conclusion, while private poker games are generally considered to be illegal in Australia, there are some exceptions. If you decide to organize a private poker game with friends and family members, make sure that no money changes hands during the game and that it is held in a private location. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy playing poker with your loved ones without breaking any laws.