Victoria’s Pokies Reform Delayed, Prompting Criticism and Surplus Concerns
The Allan government is facing backlash after announcing a delay to its poker machine reform plan, which was initially set to introduce mandatory pre-commitment—also known as “carded play”—across venues. The move could potentially add $800 million to Victoria’s coffers, raising concerns that the delay prioritizes revenue over public welfare.
Carded play was a key promise made by former Premier Daniel Andrews in 2023 and would require pokies users to set betting limits before engaging with the machines. While legislation had already passed Victoria’s lower house and was scheduled for a mid-2024 trial in 40 venues, that trial has yet to materialize. The reform appears stalled in the upper house, with sources suggesting no implementation before the 2026 election.
Budget Projections and Criticism
Treasurer Jaclyn Symes’ recent budget predicts pokies tax revenue will grow to $1.5 billion per year by 2028–29, up from $1.4 billion the previous year. This projection contradicts previous forecasts that anticipated a revenue drop following reform implementation. The government is now projecting a $600 million surplus, which some Labor insiders believe is being bolstered by gambling losses.
One Labor MP, speaking anonymously, criticized the optics of the delay, saying it appears to rely on “pokies losses from battlers in outer suburbs.”
Outrage From Advocates
Reverend Tim Costello of the Alliance for Gambling Reform labelled the decision to defer reforms a betrayal of public trust. He emphasized that the pre-commitment system at Crown Casino, the only venue in the state with such a system following a royal commission, has already shown a reduction in gambling harm.
Costello warned against further delays, arguing that pokies are “literally the crack cocaine of gambling” and that the promised reforms are essential to reducing harm in vulnerable communities.
Greens MP Katherine Copsey also voiced frustration, accusing the government of bowing to gambling industry pressure. “The Greens are ready to work with Labor to pass this pokies reform right now. We have the numbers in parliament, so what are Labor waiting for?” she asked.
Industry Opposition and Alternative Proposals
While reform advocates press for immediate action, the Coalition has maintained its opposition to the carded play plan. The Australian Hotels Association and other industry groups have proposed alternatives, such as South Australia’s facial recognition system that blocks self-excluded patrons. However, critics argue this approach fails to protect players who haven’t formally opted out.
Despite growing resistance, government officials insist they remain committed to reform. Premier Jacinta Allan said the administration is still dedicated to implementing the changes. Minister for Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation Enver Erdogan added that the government is pursuing a phased approach that ensures effective implementation and cooperation with industry players.
What’s Next?
According to a government spokesperson, the bill will be passed and reforms implemented because “too many Victorians are experiencing gambling harm.”
However, the timeline remains uncertain. Technological considerations and industry collaboration are expected to shape the next stage, which may include new trial phases before full-scale rollout. Although legislation passed the lower house in March, the planned May trial was ultimately cancelled. Sources indicate that a revised, slower implementation plan is in development.
As pressure mounts from advocates, political allies, and community groups, scrutiny on the government continues to grow—particularly as its financial strategy appears increasingly reliant on sustained gambling revenue.
- SCCG Management. The Gambling Industry’s Global Connector. Access Here.
- Source: SCCGManagement.com
