Australia has long been known as one of the most gambling-friendly nations in the world, with a higher rate of gambling participation per capita than almost anywhere else.
While pokies (slot machines) still dominate the industry, the country’s relationship with gambling is evolving, particularly as poker reclaims popularity both in traditional venues and online.
From local clubs hosting tournaments to online gambling sites Australia, poker has become a defining feature of the country’s modern gambling culture.
A Changing Gambling Landscape
The latest data shows that Australians lose more money per person to gambling than any other population globally, with total losses exceeding $25 billion annually.
Electronic gaming machines, sports betting, and lotteries continue to account for the majority of spending.
However, poker — both live and online — is gaining momentum again after several years of decline.
Part of this resurgence can be attributed to younger demographics discovering poker through streaming platforms and social media, where influencers and professionals regularly broadcast high-stakes games and tutorials.
At the same time, older generations who once filled pub poker leagues are returning post-pandemic, seeking the social engagement that physical tables offer.
The Online Poker Boom
Online poker in Australia has experienced fluctuating fortunes since the introduction of the Interactive Gambling Act in 2001, which restricted offshore operators from offering certain services to Australian residents.
For a time, that caused major poker platforms like PokerStars and 888Poker to withdraw from the Australian market.
Yet recent years have seen a quiet resurgence as new, locally compliant services entered the market and offshore sites began exploring re-entry options under evolving regulatory interpretations.
Australians are also increasingly turning to social poker apps, which use virtual currency rather than real money but often mirror the same gaming mechanics.
These platforms have grown rapidly, filling the gap left by traditional online poker sites and attracting a large user base of casual players.
During the COVID-19 lockdowns, online poker participation surged as physical venues closed, and while live tournaments have since returned, many players have remained active online due to convenience and game variety.
Live Poker: From Local Clubs to Global Stages
Australia’s live poker scene remains strong, with the Australian Poker Tour, World Series of Poker Circuit events, and major tournaments like the Aussie Millions attracting thousands of participants each year.
The Aussie Millions, held at Melbourne’s Crown Casino, is one of the most prestigious poker events outside Las Vegas, often drawing international professionals alongside domestic talent.
Although the event was paused during the pandemic, industry insiders expect it to return in the near future given its historical popularity and economic impact.
Smaller poker leagues, such as the Australian Poker League (APL) and the Pub Poker League, have also maintained consistent participation across states.
These local circuits serve as feeder systems for larger tournaments, giving amateur players opportunities to qualify for high-stakes events through low-cost entry games at pubs and clubs.
Regulation and Responsible Gambling
Regulation of poker and broader gambling activity in Australia remains a complex issue.
While gambling laws are largely governed by individual states and territories, there are ongoing efforts to strengthen consumer protection measures at the national level.
Recent government reports have emphasized concerns about the rise of online gambling, particularly its accessibility and potential links to problem gambling.
Australia has already implemented mandatory self-exclusion schemes, advertising restrictions, and proposed bans on credit card gambling payments for online platforms.
Poker, however, occupies a somewhat unique space — many players view it as a game of skill as much as chance, and research suggests that poker players often differ in motivation and behavior compared to those engaged in pokies or sports betting.
Nevertheless, experts continue to warn that online poker carries similar addiction risks due to its availability and the fast-paced nature of digital play.
Cultural and Economic Impact
Poker’s popularity in Australia extends beyond gambling — it has become a social and cultural pastime that bridges demographics.
For many players, weekly pub poker nights offer an affordable, community-driven form of entertainment.
For others, it serves as a competitive pursuit or even a secondary source of income.
Economically, the poker industry contributes millions to local hospitality sectors each year through venue partnerships, event tourism, and sponsorship deals.
Large tournaments generate significant hotel occupancy and dining revenue, particularly in Melbourne and Sydney, where major poker events attract both domestic and international visitors.
As online platforms continue to grow, digital poker also contributes to a broader shift in the gambling economy toward mobile technology and data-driven engagement.
