Poker machines provide Australians with what seemed to be one of the most popular recreational activities in the country. However, pokies seem to losing their touch, as a recent study has shown that fewer dollars are being spent on poker machines. According to ABC news, Australians are spending $2 billion less than they had in the previous year.
While they are still contributing over $10 billion to the market overall, $2 billion is a massive drop in revenue for gaming clubs and the charities they provide for. Over all, gaming revenues have dropped to about $17 billion overall, despite the sportsbetting market seeing more action. Researcher Jane Ianniello claims that the global recession has had a big impact on gambling spending.
She notes that players increased their spending shortly after the global recession. However, now that they have had a chance to step back and examine their finances, they are cutting back on their recreational activities. Fewer Australians seem to be going to local gaming clubs to have a drink and play pokies. Thus, there is less opportunity to spend money on gambling activities and other forms of adult entertainment.
This should be a sign to club owners that they may have to start depending less on gambling revenue and invest in other forms of entertainment.