Seventy years after NSW legalised poker machines, losses are still rising, climbing this year almost twice the rate of inflation. Wesley Mission says it is time to act on gambling harm, just as governments acted on seat belts, tobacco advertising and lead in petrol. On 19 September 1956, poker machines were legalised in NSW clubs. …
Tag Archive for Pokies
NSW loses record $4.75 billion in six months on poker machines
by themovieboards - Editor •
NSW residents have lost a record record $4.75 billion on poker machines in the first six months of 2026, more than $311 million above the same period last year, as losses remain above $1 million an hour for the eighth consecutive quarter – two straight years. The latest NSW Office of Liquor & Gaming figures…
Wagga Wagga backs poker machine reform
by themovieboards - Editor •
After Wagga Wagga residents lost $18 million on poker machines in the first three months of 2026 and remain on track to lose more than $72 million by years end, Wagga Wagga City Council has backed a Notice of Motion from Cr Jenny McKinnon, calling for stronger poker machine reform. The decision builds on growing…
Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation Welcomes Hawks Move Away From Pokies
by themovieboards - Editor •
The Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation welcomed the announcement by Hawthorn Football Club that it has finalised arrangements to completely divest itself of pokies. Foundation CEO Shane Lucas said the decision by these clubs reflected community support to keep sport and gambling separate. Mr Lucas said that with the sale of its two venues, Hawthorn FC,…
Incentives to Remove Pokies From ACT Clubs
by themovieboards - Editor •
To support Canberra’s community clubs while reducing the harm caused by pokie machines, the ACT Government will provide $15,000 for each gaming machine authorisation surrendered by gaming machine licensees in the ACT. Minister for Gaming Shane Rattenbury said the surrender incentive is an integral component of the ACT Government’s commitment to reduce the number of…