Poker machine revenue losses hit $1.5n in Aus

Figures from the Alliance for Gambling Reform (AGR) show just how big an impact the Coronavirus lockdown is having on gambling in the country.

Australia.- The Alliance for Gambling Reform (AGR) estimates that AU$1.5billion in poker machine revenue has been lot due to lockdown measures in the country.

There are around 200,000 poker machines in Australia situated in bars, clubs and casinos around the country all of which have been forced to closed their doors under strict measures to combat Covid-19.

AGR says that AU$1billion in revenue has been lost in less than a month across pubs and clubs, but the figure is closer to AU$1.5billion if estimated gambling losses in casinos are also counted.

In a statement, AGR chief advocate Tim Costello said he believes the shutdown will help to reduce problem gambling in the country.

“That’s more than $1billion that can instead be spent putting food on tables, paying for medical bills and utilities, rent and mortgages.

“Beyond the personal financial benefits and those for our economy, this current poker machine shut down will be significantly reducing gambling harm.”

“Those are serious issues inevitably escalating through this crisis, but minimising gambling harm as a contributor to these issues is a good thing.”