Tasmanian Pokie Losses Hit Record $208 Million as Debate Over Gambling Reforms Intensifies

Tasmanians lost a record $208.27 million on poker machines during the 2025–26 financial year, marking the highest annual total since the state began publishing monthly gambling figures 15 years ago and reversing the gradual declines seen before the pandemic.

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Treasury data shows losses climbed 6.9 per cent from the previous financial year, narrowly exceeding the previous record of $208.15 million set in 2011–12. Over the past 15 years, poker machine losses in Tasmania have accumulated to $2.79 billion.

The latest figures equate to an average loss of roughly $360 per Tasmanian, although actual gambling activity is concentrated among a smaller share of the population.

Critics link record losses to wider social harm

The release of the data has reignited political debate over gambling policy, with independent MP Meg Webb arguing that the financial losses extend far beyond individual gamblers. She contends the rising expenditure on poker machines is reflected in broader social problems, including homelessness, mental health pressures, domestic violence, poverty, crime and reduced employment and education opportunities.

Webb also linked the increase to government policy, accusing the Liberal administration of prioritising industry profits over public health.

Mark Kempster, representing the Alliance for Gambling Reform, described the annual losses as deeply concerning, particularly as many households continue to struggle with higher living costs. He argued both the government and opposition should be held accountable for allowing gambling losses to reach a new high.

Government defends revised gambling reforms

The state government defended its approach, pointing instead to its broader package of harm-minimisation measures. Acting Premier Guy Barnett said reforms aimed at reducing gambling-related harm remain an ongoing priority.

The figures arrive as the government abandons one of its most significant proposed reforms: a mandatory cashless gaming card with pre-set spending limits. Gambling harm specialists had long promoted the system as one of the most effective ways to curb excessive gambling.

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Instead, ministers are pursuing an alternative package that includes a cashless ticketing system, permitting ATMs inside gaming venues, extending venue operating hours and expanding access to self-exclusion programs.

The policy shift has drawn additional scrutiny after correspondence released this week revealed the Liquor and Gaming Commission warned the government that elements of its revised approach could potentially result in greater gambling harm.

Treasurer Eric Abetz has defended the government’s direction, maintaining that the measures are designed to be practical, proportionate and respectful of individual choice. He has argued the reforms should be judged as a combined package rather than as standalone initiatives.

Tasmania trails larger states on per-capita losses

Although Tasmania has recorded its highest-ever annual pokies losses, it does not have Australia’s highest losses on a per-person basis.

Queensland gamblers lost around $4 billion on poker machines over the same period, working out to more than $700 per resident. In New South Wales, annual poker machine losses reached $9.3 billion during 2025, equivalent to more than $1,000 per person.

Webb also pointed to Tasmania’s 2023 overhaul of poker machine licensing arrangements, which allows venues to retain a larger share of gaming revenue. She argues the changes have intensified competition between venues and helped drive the continued growth in gambling losses, reflecting a regulatory approach she believes favours industry interests over consumer protection and public health.

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Source: abc.net.au