Recent data show that the average pokie machine in NSW is generating 25% more revenue than three years ago. Half-yearly data reveals that pokies profits in pubs and clubs have increased by over 20% since early 2019.
This discovery is made all the more startling, considering that the number of machines across the state has been reduced by 5% as of June 2022. Most of the machines in the state are in registered clubs and take in $1325 a week on average, an improvement over 2019’s figure of $1086 a week.
The pokies that bring in the most revenue, however, are located in hotels where they generate an average of over $2800 a week each. The Strathfield council area has been particularly profitable with its 117 pokies taking in a combined $26 million over the first half of 2022.
A social media post by ClubsNSW details how registered clubs benefit their surroundings by giving back to their local communities.
“Whether it’s sponsoring the local footy team, helping school children plant new trees, donating money to children’s hospitals or engaging people with disabilities, your local club is involved in more projects than you may realise. Annually, registered clubs make a social contribution valued at $1.3 billion, and an economic contribution of $3.7 billion,” the post read.
Changing Times
The arrival of new technology is changing how players are interacting with pokies Premier Dominic Perrottet recently announced his support for the implementation of cashless gaming card systems that he claimed would reduce crime and gambling harm. Opposition Leader Chris Minns was less enthusiastically supportive, stating that he would first need to examine the related data to confirm the effect that the digitization of gambling is having on players.
Tasmania intends to introduce a cashless gambling card by the end of 2024. The innovation will include default spending limits of $100 per day, $500 per week and $5000 per year. Players will also have the option to adjust these default limits.
