Is It Legal to Own a Poker Machine in Australia?

Poker machines, also known as “pokies”, are a type of gambling machine commonly found in casinos and pubs across Australia. While pokies are legal in Australia, there are some restrictions on where they can be placed and how they can be operated.

Poker machines were first introduced into Australia in the early 1900s, and their popularity has grown steadily ever since. Today, there are an estimated 200,000 poker machines operating in Australia, with the majority of these located in New South Wales and Victoria.

PRO TIP:In Australia, poker machines are legal in certain territories and states, but not all. Before you purchase a poker machine, check with the relevant state or territory government to make sure you are compliant with any regulations.

While poker machines are legal in Australia, there are some restrictions on where they can be placed and how they can be operated. For example, all poker machines in NSW must be located within a licensed premises such as a club or hotel.

Additionally, poker machines must not be operated for more than 20 minutes per game, and must have a minimum return to player percentage of 87%.

The regulations surrounding poker machines vary from state to state, so it is important to check the lAWS in your area before purchasing or operating a machine. In general, however, poker machines are a legal form of gambling in Australia.