Who owns pokies in australia
Who owns pokies in australia
Poker machines, also known as slot machines or pokies, are one of the most popular forms of gambling in Australia. They are found in casinos, pubs, and clubs across the country and are estimated to generate over $12 billion in revenue annually.
The ownership structure of poker machines in Australia is complex and varies from state to state. In some states, poker machines are owned and operated by the state government. In others, they are owned by private companies. In New South Wales, for example, poker machines are owned by pubs, clubs, and other licensed venues. The venues then lease the machines to operators, who are responsible for maintaining and repairing the machines and paying taxes on the revenue they generate.
Licensing and Regulation
Overview:
Strict licensing and regulation regime overseen by state governments.
Licenses granted to eligible individuals and companies that meet fit and proper requirements.
Regulations cover areas such as machine placement, operating hours, advertising, and responsible gaming practices.
Eligibility and Requirements:
Applicants must demonstrate good character, financial stability, and experience in the gaming industry.
Background checks conducted to ensure individuals and companies are suitable to operate poker machines.
Licenses typically granted for a specified period (e.g., 5 years) and subject to periodic review.
Regulations:
Poker machines must be placed in licensed premises that comply with zoning and safety regulations.
Operating hours are limited to prevent excessive gambling.
Advertising restrictions aim to minimize the potential for problem gambling.
Responsible gaming practices include staff training, player self-exclusion programs, and harm minimization resources.
Enforcement:
State gaming regulators monitor compliance with licensing requirements and regulations.
Non-compliance can result in penalties, including fines, license suspension, or revocation.
Collaboration between regulators and law enforcement agencies to address illegal gambling and money laundering.
Importance:
Licensing and regulation ensure the integrity of the poker machine industry.
Protects players from exploitation and promotes responsible gaming.
Generates revenue for state governments that is often used to fund public services.
Ownership Distribution
Aristocrat Leisure Limited (46.3%) is the largest owner of poker machines in Australia, with over 58,000 machines installed.
Tabcorp Holdings Limited (25.9%) is the second largest owner, with over 32,000 machines installed.
Endeavour Group Limited (13.2%) is the third largest owner, with over 16,000 machines installed.
The Star Entertainment Group Limited (7.2%) is the fourth largest owner, with over 9,000 machines installed.
Crown Resorts Limited (5.4%) is the fifth largest owner, with over 6,000 machines installed.
Other operators (2.0%) own the remaining machines installed in Australia.
Policy Implications
Considering the scope and magnitude of poker machine ownership in Australia, policymakers should consider the following:
Enforce strict regulations to ensure responsible gambling practices and minimize potential harm to individuals and communities.
Support research and data collection to better understand the social, economic, and health impacts of poker machines.
Implement harm reduction strategies, such as setting limits on machine availability, betting amounts, and winnings, to mitigate the risks associated with gambling.
Explore alternative revenue sources to reduce the reliance on poker machine revenue for funding public services.
Consider the potential displacement of small businesses and other industries due to the concentration of poker machine ownership in large corporations.