Introduction: Why Look at Pokies Trends for 2026?

Pokies have been woven into Australian life for decades — lighting up pubs, clubs, and entertainment venues from Melbourne to Perth.

Whether it’s a quick spin at the local or hours spent chasing jackpots, Aussies have long had a love affair with pokies.

But as 2026 approaches, big shifts are on the horizon.

Stricter regulations, new technology, and changing player habits mean the pokies industry is bracing for some of its biggest changes yet.

Venues that once relied on the same old machines are now upgrading, going cashless, or even expanding online — while players want more control, transparency, and choice than ever before.

So what does all this mean for the future of pokies in Australia?

In this guide, we’ll break down the top 5 trend in pokies Australia predicted for 2026 — from game design to new payment tech and tighter rules.

Whether you’re a curious player, a venue owner planning ahead, or just wondering where your Friday night spin is headed, you’ll find clear answers here.

In this guide, we’ll break down:

  • What’s driving change in the pokies scene,

  • The top 5 trends experts expect to dominate in 2026,

  • And what these trends mean for the future of pokies in Australia.

Grab a seat, bring your curiosity, and let’s see what’s next for pokies in Australia.

The State of Pokies in Australia (2024–2025 Recap)

Before we jump into what’s coming next, it helps to know where pokies stand right now — because 2024 and 2025 are shaping up as pivotal years for Australia’s gambling scene.

How Big Are Pokies in Australia Today?

Pokies — or Electronic Gaming Machines (EGMs) — remain Australia’s most popular gambling option.

As of 2024, there are:

  • Over 180,000 pokies machines operating nationwide (outside of casinos),

  • Spread across thousands of pubs, hotels, clubs, and RSLs,

  • Generating billions in annual gaming revenue — especially for local venues and state taxes.

Despite decades of debate over problem gambling, pokies continue to pull crowds — they’re easy to play, accessible almost everywhere, and a reliable income stream for local clubs and hotels.

Tightening Rules & Calls for Reform

In the past couple of years, calls for reform have ramped up:

  • States like New South Wales and Victoria have faced pressure to curb problem gambling by introducing cashless cards, mandatory pre-commitment limits, and stricter self-exclusion measures.

  • Some local councils have capped the number of machines allowed per area — aiming to reduce gambling harm.

  • Venues are under growing scrutiny to prove they’re balancing profits with community responsibility.

For players, this means more changes at the pub: new ID checks, spending limits, or extra sign-up steps for loyalty programs.

The Rise of Online Pokies

While land-based pokies still dominate, online pokies are catching up — especially since COVID-19 lockdowns pushed more people online.

Australians now spend millions every month on licensed offshore sites and new local platforms offering:

  • Online slots that look and feel like pub pokies,

  • Bigger jackpot networks,

  • Mobile apps that let players spin from the couch.

States are divided on how much to legalise and tax online pokies, but one thing’s clear: more Aussies are spinning online every year.

Technology & Venue Modernisation

Old, clunky pokies rooms are getting a facelift too:

  • Venues are replacing aging machines with newer, interactive models.

  • Some clubs are trialling digital wallet payments, cashless gaming cards, and linked jackpots.

  • Upgrades mean more immersive graphics, skill-based bonus rounds, and touch-screen features.

This wave of upgrades sets the stage for the top 5 trend in pokies Australia we’ll see by 2026 — as both pubs and online platforms race to stay relevant.

Key Takeaway

In 2024 and 2025, Australia’s pokies industry is:

  • Still massive — but under pressure to modernise and minimise harm

  • Testing new tech like cashless payments and player tracking tools.

  • Seeing more players split time between the local club and online spins.

All of this leads to big questions for 2026:

  • Will tougher rules shrink machine numbers?

  • Will online pokies take a bigger slice?

  • Can venues adapt fast enough to keep players happy and regulators satisfied?

That’s exactly what the next section will unpack — the top 5 trend in pokies Australia set to shake up the game by 2026.

Top 5 Trend in Pokies Australia for 2026

So, what’s really ahead for the pokies industry in Australia?

Here are the five big trends experts and venue owners are watching — each shaping how we’ll play, pay, and stay safe around pokies by 2026.

Trend 1: Stricter Responsible Gambling Measures

What’s changing:

By 2026, expect even tighter rules on how players use pokies — especially in high-risk states like NSW and Victoria.

Already, governments are trialling:

  • Mandatory pre-commitment cards, where players set daily or weekly spend limits before they play.

  • Facial recognition technology to block self-excluded gamblers from re-entering venues.

  • Tighter ID checks, even for small wins or cash-outs.

Why it matters:

For players, this means more hoops to jump through before spinning the reels.

For venues, it means:

  • Investing in new compliance tech.

  • More training for staff.

  • Possible backlash from casual punters who prefer less oversight.

What to watch:

If current trials succeed, these responsible gambling tools could become standard Australia-wide by 2026 — with fines for venues that don’t enforce them properly.

Trend 2: Rapid Growth in Online & Mobile Pokies

What’s changing:

COVID-19 accelerated Australia’s appetite for online slots — and that demand is still booming. By 2026:

  • More states may relax restrictions on locally licensed online pokies.

  • Major clubs and hotel groups could launch official apps to keep players spinning beyond the venue.

  • Cross-platform loyalty programs could link pub machines with online accounts — earn points at the pub, keep playing at home.

Why it matters:

Players want convenience: spin anywhere, anytime, on a phone.

For venues, online pokies are both competition and opportunity — smart operators will use online extensions to keep their loyal punters engaged.

What to watch:

Expect new tech like VR pokies or interactive live slots — blending video games and gambling for a more modern feel.

Trend 3: Cashless Pokies & Digital Wallet Integration

What’s changing:

One of the biggest policy pushes in Australia is moving pokies away from cash:

  • Cashless gaming cards are being trialled to track spending in real time.

  • Digital wallets linked to ID checks and spending history.

  • Smart cards that let players block themselves from further play.

Why it matters:

Players may find it more convenient — no more collecting tickets, no more ATM runs at the pub.

Regulators love it because it makes money flow transparent — harder to hide big wins or skirt taxes.

What to watch:

Privacy and data security.

Players are already wary of how much personal data venues and governments collect — so trust in safe digital payment systems will make or break this trend.

Trend 4: New Pokies Experiences & Venue Modernisation

What’s changing:

Forget stale pokies rooms with flickering neon lights. By 2026, many pubs and clubs will upgrade to:

  • More immersive, themed gaming lounges.

  • Bigger, brighter multi-screen machines.

  • Skill-based bonus features — combining arcade gaming with pokies.

  • Linked jackpots across venues or states.

Why it matters:

Younger adults want entertainment, not just spin-and-win — so venues are blending pokies with more social, “game-like” experiences.

What to watch:

Expect to see more venues adding non-gambling attractions: sports bars, live music, or e-sports to draw punters in — then keep them entertained with revamped pokies areas.

Trend 5: Stronger Community & Social Responsibility Pressures

What’s changing:

By 2026, local councils, advocacy groups, and even players themselves will keep pushing for:

  • Lower machine caps per suburb.

  • More transparency about how pokies profits are used.

  • Proof that community clubs are genuinely giving back through grants and sponsorships.

Why it matters:

Public trust is everything — venues that fail to show they balance profit with community benefit could lose support, face protests, or struggle to renew entitlements.

What to watch:

Clubs and hotels that succeed will be those that:

  • Report community donations clearly.

  • Offer real harm minimisation programs.

  • Work with local groups instead of hiding machine numbers.

Key Takeaway for 2026

By 2026, the top 5 trend in pokies Australia will reshape:

  • How we spin: more tech, more tracking.

  • Where we spin: pubs, apps, hybrid loyalty.

  • How responsibly we play: stricter rules and smarter tools.

  • What venues must do: modernise or lose players to more convenient options.

What These 5 Trends Mean for Players

So, what do the top 5 trend in pokies Australia for 2026 mean if you’re the one pulling the lever, tapping spin, or playing from your phone at home?

Whether you love your local pub’s pokies room, dabble in online slots, or just play for fun once in a while — these trends will shape how you play, what you’ll see on the screen, and how much control you’ll have over your spending.

1. More Control — But More Rules

New responsible gambling measures mean more safety nets, but also more steps:

  • Expect to see mandatory player cards in more venues — no card, no spin.

  • Pre-set daily spend limits will help players stick to a budget — but you’ll need to manage them upfront.

  • Venues may ask for ID checks before big cash-outs or when setting up accounts.

For some, this adds peace of mind — no more surprise losses after a big night. For others, it might feel like extra hassle.

2. Playing Anytime, Anywhere

With online pokies booming, you won’t be stuck waiting for a free machine at the pub on Friday night.

  • Expect more local casinos and clubs offering official apps.

  • Linked loyalty programs mean you can earn points in the pub, then keep spinning at home.

  • Mobile pokies will get better graphics, new bonus features, and maybe even AR or VR spin experiences.

Good news: more choice. Bad news: easier to lose track of time — so those new pre-commitment tools will matter even more.

3. Cashless Convenience

Fumbling for coins and notes? Probably gone by 2026.

Players will:

  • Load money onto gaming cards or digital wallets.

  • Tap or swipe to spin, cash out straight to their e-wallet, or link to their bank.

  • Get instant spending history and play summaries.

It’s faster and cleaner than fiddling with payout tickets.

But remember — it also makes your spending trackable, so privacy will become a hot topic for some players.

4. Better Pokies Rooms, New Games

If you’re bored with old flickering screens and sticky carpet, the future looks brighter:

  • Expect themed rooms, modern lounges, and machines with huge curved screens.

  • New pokies will feel more like video games — think skill-based bonus rounds, missions, or unlockable features.

  • Bigger jackpots linked across venues could mean one spin hits huge wins that make the news.

It’s all about keeping pokies competitive with other entertainment — especially to attract new players who want more than a simple “spin and hope” game.

5. More Transparency — and Safer Play

Community pressure means you’ll probably see:

  • Clearer odds and payout info at every machine.

  • More visible helpline info if you want help.

  • Easier self-exclusion programs — tap a card, lock yourself out for a day, a week, or forever.

For most casual players, it won’t feel restrictive — but for anyone at risk, these tools could make pokies safer than ever before.

What Players Should Do Now

If you enjoy pokies, here’s how to ride the wave into 2026:

  • Learn how cashless cards work now — don’t get caught off guard.

  • Know your venue’s self-exclusion options — even if you never plan to use them.

  • Keep an eye out for modern venues with newer machines and safer play features.

  • Be aware of linked online accounts — loyalty programs are great but watch your spend across platforms.

Key Takeaway

Australia’s pokies in 2026 will give players:

  • More choice,

  • More convenience,

  • More safety nets…

…but only if you know how to use the new tools well.

So stay informed, set your limits, and spin responsibly — wherever you play.

What These 5 Trends Mean for Venue Owners

For local pubs, clubs, and RSLs, pokies have long been a cornerstone of steady income — helping fund entertainment, community sport, or just keeping the doors open.

But by 2026, the top 5 trend in pokies Australia will force every venue operator to adapt — or risk losing punters to more modern, more convenient options.

Here’s exactly what these trends mean if you run a venue with pokies — and what you’ll need to think about next.

1. Upgrade or Lose Players

Old machines won’t cut it forever:

  • Newer pokies come with higher-quality screens, touch panels, and immersive bonus rounds.

  • Younger adult punters expect an experience closer to gaming — not just repetitive spins.

  • Venues that don’t reinvest in fresh machines and a modern gaming lounge will see players drift to better-equipped competitors.

What owners should do:

  • Budget for phased machine upgrades over the next 1–2 years.

  • Talk to suppliers about skill-based or linked jackpot machines.

  • Consider a fresh fit-out: lighting, comfortable seating, themed rooms.

2. Embrace Cashless & Digital Wallets

Australia is moving away from coins and cash-out tickets. By 2026:

  • Many venues will be legally required to offer cashless play.

  • Some states may mandate digital cards linked to player ID.

  • Players will expect tap-and-play convenience — and easy e-wallet top-ups.

What owners should do:

  • Talk to your machine suppliers now about cashless integration.

  • Train staff to handle digital payments and customer questions.

  • Upgrade back-end systems to handle secure data and reporting.

3. Sharpen Responsible Gambling Compliance

With stricter rules on the way, venues must:

  • Make sure their Responsible Gambling Code is airtight and up to date.

  • Train every gaming floor staff member — and refresh training regularly.

  • Install visible signage, odds disclosures, and new self-exclusion tech.

The risk?

Non-compliance can mean:

  • Fines,

  • Loss of entitlements,

  • Public backlash if a breach hits the news.

What owners should do:

  • Audit your current compliance setup now.

  • Budget for upgrades like facial recognition or new card readers if your state mandates them.

  • Build a culture where responsible gambling isn’t just a sign on the wall — it’s daily practice.

4. Online & Mobile Crossovers

Some venues will see online pokies as a threat. Smart venues will see an opportunity:

  • Clubs can expand loyalty programs to online play, giving members points whether they spin in the pub or on their phones.

  • Bigger hotel groups may partner with licensed online platforms to offer promotions or jackpots.

  • Cross-channel play keeps your regulars loyal — even when they’re not in the venue.

What owners should do:

  • Explore partnerships with regulated online gaming brands.

  • Build simple digital loyalty offers.

  • Know your local laws — online gambling is still regulated at the federal and state level.

5. Prove Real Community Benefit

More than ever, local communities, councils, and the media will ask:

“Where does all that pokies revenue actually go?”

Clubs especially must:

  • Provide clear, audited Community Benefit Statements (CBS).

  • Show how funds support local sport, events, or charities.

  • Avoid the PR nightmare of appearing profit-only.

What owners should do:

  • Keep CBS paperwork accurate and public.

  • Highlight community programs in newsletters and online.

  • Be proactive — don’t wait for negative headlines to prove you’re giving back.

Key Takeaway for Venue Owners

By 2026, the top 5 trend in pokies Australia will mean:

  • More upfront costs to modernise.

  • New tech to learn.

  • More rules to follow — and prove.

  • More ways to lose loyal players if you don’t keep up.

But for venues that do the work, the payoff is clear:

A safer, more modern, more appealing pokies experience that keeps players coming back — legally and responsibly.

Predictions: Will Pokies Still Dominate in Australia in 2026?

So with all these changes coming — tighter rules, new tech, growing online competition — will pokies still hold their crown as Australia’s favourite gambling pastime in 2026?

Short answer? Probably — but not in the same way they do today.

Here’s why

Pokies Have Deep Roots

Pokies have been part of Aussie culture for decades:

  • They’re easy to play — no complex rules, no poker face needed.

  • They’re accessible — from the local pub to the biggest clubs.

  • They fund billions in local revenue and community services — especially for clubs and RSLs.

This deep entrenchment means pokies won’t disappear overnight — they’re too woven into how clubs and pubs operate.

But Player Habits Are Changing

Younger adults have grown up with:

  • Online casinos,

  • Mobile slots,

  • Video games that are far more interactive than old-school pokies.

Many under-30s want:

  • More entertainment value,

  • Skill-based bonus rounds,

  • Bigger linked jackpots,

  • Or they prefer online slots they can play at home.

This shift doesn’t kill traditional pokies — but it forces venues to modernise or risk losing the next generation.

Online Options Are Getting Stronger

While brick-and-mortar pokies rooms will still dominate in 2026, online pokies will keep gaining ground:

  • COVID lockdowns showed players they like spinning at home.

  • Mobile apps make it easy to switch from pub machines to phone slots in seconds.

  • Future states may relax online gaming restrictions further — to keep tax dollars local.

The smart venues will tap into this crossover — linking in-venue loyalty with online play, or partnering with licensed platforms.

Regulation Will Shape the Landscape

One wildcard: new rules.

If more states enforce:

  • Cashless cards only,

  • Strict spending limits,

  • Or heavy machine caps in suburbs,

…some venues may reduce machine numbers or decide pokies aren’t worth the overhead.

But the reality is that pokies revenue is too important for many small pubs and clubs to walk away entirely.

Responsible Gambling Will Drive Survival

Players — and communities — are increasingly vocal about problem gambling.

So by 2026, the venues that win will be those that:

  • Modernise their machines,

  • Offer more transparent odds and tools,

  • Run clear self-exclusion programs,

  • Show genuine community benefits.

Those that don’t? Expect heavier oversight, local pushback, and less trust.

Final Forecast

Will pokies still dominate in Australia by 2026?

Yes — but not as old-school, cash-heavy machines hidden in dark rooms.

They’ll be:

  • More digital,

  • More controlled,

  • More linked with mobile play,

  • And more transparent for players and the public.

Venues that evolve with the top 5 trend in pokies Australia will keep steady revenue — and keep their community onside.

Final Takeaway: Australia’s Pokies in 2026

If there’s one thing clear from looking at the top 5 trend in pokies Australia, it’s this: pokies are evolving — whether you’re ready or not.

For players, the future means:

  • More choice — play at the pub, then keep spinning at home.

  • More safety nets — smart cards, spend limits, self-exclusion.

  • Better venues — modern lounges, new game experiences.

For venues, the future means:

  • More responsibility — prove your community value, run safer gaming rooms.

  • More upgrades — cashless tech, digital wallets, online crossovers.

  • More rules — stricter compliance, transparent reporting, smarter staff training.

One thing won’t change: Aussies love the thrill of a spin.

But how, where, and how safely they spin in 2026 will look very different from the pokies rooms we know today.

FAQ: Future of Pokies in Australia

Will pokies still be legal in Australia in 2026?

Yes — but expect stricter rules, especially around spending limits, cashless play, and venue compliance.

Will I need an ID or card to play pokies in 2026?

In many states, probably yes. Trials are already running for player cards and mandatory ID checks to help limit gambling harm.

Will pokies go fully online?

Not fully — pubs and clubs will keep physical machines, but many will offer online or app-based pokies too.

Are cashless pokies mandatory?

Some states are moving towards this. By 2026, it’s likely that most venues will need to offer or switch to cashless gaming cards or digital wallets.

How can I play responsibly with new pokies tech?

Learn how to set daily or weekly limits, use self-exclusion tools, and understand how cashless tracking works. Safer play is part of the future.

Final Word

However you spin — in a local pub, a club, or on your phone — stay informed, use the tools, and play within your means.

That’s the smart way to enjoy the future of pokies in Australia.