SA’s Poker Machine Losses Surpass $1 Billion for First Time
Record-Breaking Losses in South Australia
In the past financial year, South Australians have lost over $1 billion on poker machines, marking a new high in the region’s gambling losses. This alarming trend has raised concerns among experts who warn that gambling-related harm is intensifying and becoming more difficult to control.
Increase of $53 Million Compared to Last Year
The revenue generated from gaming machines for the 2024-25 period rose by nearly $53 million compared to the previous year. From this, the state government collected more than $453 million, while venues received almost $555 million.
The financial impact is particularly severe in regional communities, with Mount Gambier and the Grant council areas accounting for losses of $24 million and Whyalla seeing $20.7 million lost to pokies.
Martin Thomas, CEO of the Alliance for Gambling Reform, highlighted that across Australia, poker machine losses have reached an astonishing $32 billion annually. He emphasized that these losses not only cause significant financial damage but also contribute to widespread social harm throughout communities.
Thomas further explained that during challenging times, some individuals are more vulnerable to gambling, as impaired decision-making can make the allure of quick wins and escapism through pokies more tempting.
Popularity of Poker Machines Persists
Despite the rapid growth of online betting, poker machines remain Australia’s most popular form of gambling. Associate Professor Charles Livingstone from Monash University pointed out that the true cost of gambling extends far beyond money lost; studies estimate social costs to be nearly three times the amount wagered, with Victoria alone facing social costs around $14 billion annually.
In South Australia’s south-east, communities lost approximately $42 million to poker machines, a figure linked to the prevalence of pokies in local pubs, clubs, and sporting venues which increases residents’ exposure to gambling.
The Australian Greens have called for a complete ban on poker machines within South Australia by 2030. Greens MP Robert Simms described pokies as a harmful influence tied to family violence and crime and criticized the state government for relying on them as a revenue source despite their devastating impact.
Conversely, Anna Moeller, CEO of the Australian Hotels Association SA, argued that pokies revenues are vital for keeping many venues operational, especially amid the current cost of living challenges, as they provide necessary financial support through cross-subsidization.
Consumer and Business Affairs Minister Andrea Michaels stated that South Australia enforces some of the strictest regulations on poker machines nationwide, including facial recognition technology and automated risk monitoring systems. The government remains dedicated to reducing gambling-related harm and earlier launched a public awareness campaign about the consequences of excessive gambling on finances, relationships, and mental health.
