Discover the significance of pokies in Canberra's economy and culture. Learn about the landscape of poker machines, key venues, and government targets for reduction.
Canberra's pokies, short for poker machines, represent a vital part of the local gaming culture. These electronic gaming machines are prevalent in various clubs and pubs across the city. This guide aims to explore the essence of Canberra pokies, emphasizing the unique regulations, popular venues, and responsible gaming practices associated with this form of entertainment.
Canberra’s pokies (short for poker machines) scene is unlike any other in Australia. While the city is home to a vibrant club and pub culture, its approach to gaming is shaped by a unique blend of community focus, strict regulation, and a growing shift away from gambling dependence. This guide explores the current landscape of Canberra pokies, offering insights into venues, regulations, trends, and responsible gaming practices.
Pokies are electronic gaming machines found in clubs, pubs, and hotels across Australia. In Canberra, they have historically been a major source of revenue for community clubs, funding everything from sports teams to local events. However, their role is changing rapidly due to increasing regulatory scrutiny and a cultural shift toward harm minimisation.
Canberra’s gaming landscape is club-centric. Unlike other Australian cities, Casino Canberra does not have poker machines—all pokies are located in licensed clubs and pubs. This makes the club sector the heart of Canberra’s gaming culture.
Canberra hosts a unique pokies scene, rooted in club culture. Unlike typical casinos, these venues blend social and economic community support.
Discover the clubs and pubs forming the core of poker machine activity, and upcoming regulatory milestones shaping the industry's future.
Canberra’s clubs are the primary hubs for pokies, offering a mix of gaming, dining, and entertainment.
| Club Name | Location | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Labor Club | Kingston | Large gaming floor, live music, events |
| Central Social Club | Manuka | Modern facilities, sports bar, dining |
| Canberra Services Club | Fyshwick | Family-friendly, community events |
| Royal Canberra Golf Club | Bruce | Exclusive, limited gaming area |
Many pubs and sports bars also feature pokies, often with a focus on sports viewing and casual gaming.
| Venue Name | Location | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Tradies Club | Kingston | Live music, sports, gaming lounge |
| Hellenic Club | Griffith | Greek cuisine, gaming, events |
| Royal Oaks Hotel | Narrabundah | Sports bar, gaming, dining |
Canberra has some of the strictest pokies regulations in Australia, driven by a commitment to reducing gambling harm.
Canberra is a leader in harm minimisation, with several initiatives in place:
Top venues: Labor Club, Central Social Club, and Tradies Club consistently rank among the most profitable for pokies.
Reduced reliance on pokies: Many clubs are exploring alternative revenue models, such as hosting events, offering co-working spaces, or repurposing land for housing and community services.
The community is becoming more aware of gambling risks, and there is strong support for reform. The ACT government’s 20-year reform roadmap aims to create a more sustainable, inclusive, and community-focused club sector.
Canberra’s pokies scene is at a crossroads. While the city remains a hub for club-based gaming, the future is moving toward diversification, regulation, and responsible gambling. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, understanding the unique landscape of Canberra pokies—its venues, rules, and evolving culture—is key to enjoying the city’s gaming offerings safely and responsibly.
Explore the vibrant pokies scene, but always play within your limits and support venues that prioritise community and well-being.
Thanking our partners in supporting Canberra's gaming community and fostering safe, responsible gaming environments.
Top clubs featuring the best pokies experiences in Canberra. Discover venues combining gaming, socializing, and dining.
Learn about the ongoing reforms and future of pokies in Canberra. How new laws and cultural shifts are changing the scene.
ACT achieves its 2025 target of reducing pokies to 3,793 machines with plans for further reductions by 2045.
Join upcoming sessions to discuss future reforms and community impacts of pokies legislation.
ACT Government launches new programs to enhance player safety and promote responsible gaming.