Residents of New South Wales (NSW) are reportedly losing an average of $24 million every day to poker machines, according to new figures that have reignited a fierce debate over gambling reforms in the state. The staggering loss has prompted calls from public health advocates, community leaders, and politicians for urgent regulatory action.
Daily Losses Reach Startling New Highs
The latest data released by Liquor & Gaming NSW shows that poker machine losses across pubs and clubs in the state totaled more than $8.8 billion in the most recent 12-month period. This equates to approximately $24 million in daily losses—placing NSW among the highest gambling jurisdictions per capita in the world.
With more than 86,000 poker machines operating outside casinos in NSW, the issue continues to draw criticism over its social and economic impact on lower-income communities.
Reform Calls Grow Louder
Advocacy groups like the Alliance for Gambling Reform have expressed deep concern over the figures. They argue that the state’s reliance on gambling revenue is placing vulnerable citizens at risk and reinforcing cycles of poverty, mental health issues, and family distress.
Independent MP Alex Greenwich has renewed calls for the introduction of mandatory cashless gaming cards, daily spending limits, and real-time loss tracking—reforms that were previously suggested but met with resistance from industry stakeholders.
Government Response Under Scrutiny
The NSW government has acknowledged the growing public concern but remains cautious in its approach. Premier Chris Minns has stated that reforms must strike a balance between harm minimization and preserving jobs and revenue in the hospitality sector.
A recent pilot program for cashless gaming is currently being evaluated, but critics argue that progress is too slow given the scale of daily losses.
Clubs and Pubs Push Back
The powerful clubs and pubs lobby has continued to defend the status quo, citing existing voluntary self-exclusion programs and responsible gambling tools. Industry representatives argue that most gamblers use poker machines recreationally and responsibly, and they warn that excessive restrictions could hurt local economies.
Some club managers have gone further to suggest that reforms could lead to a loss in community funding derived from poker machine profits.
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