It is a well-known fact that poker machines are the most popular form of leisure entertainment among adults in Australia, but a recent report shines new light on the issue. According to a new study, in Victoria alone pokies operators have earned a staggering $37 billion. In 1992, the first poker machines were legalized in the state, making this week the 20th year anniversary of the occasion.

During this time, exactly $37.9 billion was spent by Victorians on poker machines. Over the years, the government has earned a huge amount of tax revenue from these machines. John Cain was the last Prime Minister to reject the new poker machines, missing out on a great deal of tax income; however, he states that he does not regret doing so.

Today, millions of dollars generated by poker machines are used to fund a wide range of education, arts, sports and healthcare programs across Victoria and the rest of the country. So, the billions spent on pokies have had some beneficial effects on the community. However, there are still many individual who find it difficult to control their spending.

As such, many politicians want to impose limits as safeguards to ensure that families are not harmed by gambling addiction. The legislation of such limits still remains to be seen.

About the Author

George Anderson
Author George, has over 25+ years’ experience in the Pokies and Casinos industry throughout Australia and New Zealand. Loves to research new Pokies games on the block and follows announcements from top industry providers about their upcoming releases. As soon as a new interesting pokie game appears on his radar, George is there to check it out and give you the scoop before anyone else and tell you about all casino sites where can play the latest game. Before this gig, George worked as Pokie game tester, making him an ideal candidate for this genre of work. He is also an animal lover and a proud owner of three dogs.