Pokie machines, also called electronic gaming machines, are essentially slot machines found in pubs and clubs throughout Australia. They work similarly to slot machines elsewhere, with spinning reels and video displays mimicking the reels. Players wager money and try to line up symbols for a chance to win.
The games are based on a random number generator (e.g. through the application of the uncertainty principle). Thus, the probability of getting the jackpot in each game is based on luck and these probabilities are all equal.
Australian pokies often have more features than traditional slots, with bonus rounds, free games, and multiple pay lines (ways to win). The number of pokies is strictly regulated by each state, and there’s ongoing debate about their social impact. Some argue for restrictions due to gambling harm concerns, while others emphasise their contribution to the economy.
Pokies: A Gamble With the Odds Stacked Against You
Pokie machines, also known as gaming machines, are a popular form of gambling, but they can be addictive and lead to financial problems. These machines are designed to make money for the venues that operate them, not to make NSW residents or any other Australian residents rich.
- How They Work: Each machine uses a computer program to randomly generate outcomes. Every time you press the button, it picks a random result from thousands of possibilities. This happens constantly, regardless of previous wins or losses.
- Designed to Keep You Playing: The sounds, lights, and small bet sizes can create a false sense of security and make it seem like you’re not losing much. However, these features are meant to create excitement and keep you engaged even if you’re not winning.
- Wins Are Unpredictable: There’s no way to influence the outcome of a pokie machine game. It doesn’t matter when you play, how you play, or what machine you choose. The odds are always in favour of the house.
- The Reality of Winning: Winning a large jackpot on a pokie machine is extremely unlikely. For example, the odds of winning a typical $5,000 prize on a $1 machine are a staggering 9,700,000 to 1.
News on Pokie Machines
A news report in New South Wales shows people lost a massive amount of money to pokies in just a few months. This has reignited calls for stricter controls on these electronic gaming machines. The report highlights that Western Sydney, an area already facing economic challenges, is being hit especially hard by pokie machine losses.
Critics argue pokies are a profitable industry that comes at a great cost to society, causing financial hardship and addiction. As a possible solution, some are proposing cashless cards that would limit how much people can gamble. However, the hospitality industry is pushing back against reforms, fearing job losses.
An article also states that all venues with poker machines in Victoria, except Crown Casino, will be required to close gaming areas between 4am and 10am. The Victorian government says 330,000 Victorians each year suffer harm as a result of gambling.
Are You Considering Getting a Pokie Machine?
Imagine you’re setting up your personal retreat, complete with a bar, pool table, arcade machine, and a large-screen TV for watching sports. Perhaps you’re even considering adding a second-hand poker machine to enhance the atmosphere. Or maybe you find yourself reminiscing about the simpler times when poker machines weren’t as flashy and loud as they are today.
However, the reality in New South Wales is that the government tightly controls nearly every aspect of gaming or pokie machines in the state, all while reaping the financial benefits. It’s important to understand that engaging in activities like acquiring, owning, or selling a gaming machine without the proper licences and permissions can lead to criminal charges.
The regulation of gaming machines in New South Wales is primarily governed by the Gaming Machines Act 2001 and its associated regulations, overseen by Liquor and Gaming New South Wales. What exactly constitutes a gaming machine?
Section 4 of the Act defines such machines as designed for playing games of chance or skill. These machines can also pay out money or tokens or register a claim to a monetary value. This definition is broad, encompassing not just the machines themselves, but also any of their components.
To legally acquire or possess pokie machines, one must:
- Hold a registered clubs or hotel liquor licence
- Have sufficient electronic gaming machine thresholds; and
- Obtain a gaming machine entitlement for each machine
The process involves purchasing from licenced dealers or sellers, arranging for central monitoring equipment installation, and complying with strict payment and record-keeping requirements.
What Are the Penalties?
Breaking gambling laws in NSW carries severe penalties, including imprisonment and hefty fines. The Gaming Machines Act 2001 also outlines various criminal offences concerning the acquisition, ownership, distribution, and trade of gaming machines that violate regulations. Owning pokie machines in New South Wales sounds like fun. However, the law makes it a serious hassle:
- Big trouble for unauthorised owners: Owning a pokie without a licence (Section 69, 70) could land you in jail for up to a year or hit you with a big fine.
- Used machines? Forget it: Buying a used pokie online is illegal (Section 69). They’re most likely not approved machines anyway.
- Even approved machines have rules: Even if you have a permit, there are strict rules about keeping and modifying them (Section 72). Break them and it’ll cost you.
- Selling parts is illegal too: Trying to sell parts from a pokie machine is also an offence (Section 69A).
Liquor and Gaming authorities strongly advise against purchasing gaming machines from unauthorised sources, emphasising the potential legal consequences.
Don’t Get Hooked: The Devastating Impact of Pokies
While the allure of a pokie machine in your game room might be tempting, the legalities quickly turn that dream into a nightmare. The hefty fines and potential jail time simply aren’t worth the risk. Although, there are alternatives for people who want to buy pokie machines. They may:
- Explore the legalities of classic arcade games or non-gambling amusement machines within NSW government standards.
- Consider pool tables, board games, or other recreational activities for your entertainment space.
- Research online resources for responsible gambling if you or someone you know struggles with real life or online gambling addiction. People with who have a problem gambling responsibly may make poor life decisions.
- Help investigate money laundering matters which is closely tied to gambling
If you’re facing legal issues related to pokie machines, JB Solicitors can help. We have experienced lawyers who can provide guidance and representation to protect your rights and get you back on track.
Don’t hesitate to contact us if you need legal advice or assistance with gambling-related matters.
