Key Moments:
- Tasmanians incurred poker machine losses totaling $208.27 million in the 2025–26 financial year, surpassing previous records
- The state government has abandoned plans for a mandatory cashless gaming card, opting for alternative harm-minimization measures
- The Liquor and Gaming Commission warned that aspects of the revised policy may increase gambling-related harm
Record-Breaking Losses Mark a Turning Point
Poker machine losses in Tasmania hit $208.27 million for the 2025–26 financial year, according to Treasury data. This figure marks an increase of 6.9 percent from the prior year, narrowly exceeding the previous record of $208.15 million registered in 2011–12. Cumulatively, the state’s poker machine losses have reached $2.79 billion over the last 15 years, reversing pre-pandemic declines.
These latest results equate to average per capita losses of approximately $360, although gambling participation remains concentrated within a smaller portion of the population.
Political Fallout and Social Impact
The data release has fueled fresh debate over gambling regulation. Independent MP Meg Webb argued that financial losses linked to poker machines have societal consequences, pointing to homelessness, mental health challenges, domestic violence, poverty, crime, and diminished prospects for work and education. Webb claimed the government’s approach prioritizes industry revenues rather than public health.
Mark Kempster, representing the Alliance for Gambling Reform, described the losses as “deeply concerning,” given that many households are continuing to deal with increased living costs. He called for accountability from both government and opposition leaders, stating, “both the government and opposition should be held accountable for allowing gambling losses to reach a new high.”
Revision of Government Measures Amid Criticism
In response to criticism, the government highlighted its harm-minimization strategy. Acting Premier Guy Barnett reaffirmed that “reforms aimed at reducing gambling-related harm remain an ongoing priority.”
However, the government has abandoned its plan for a mandatory cashless gaming card with fixed spending caps. Harm-prevention specialists had advocated for this tool as an effective method to combat excessive gambling. Instead, ministers are introducing a suite of measures, such as a cashless ticketing system, permitting ATMs on gaming premises, lengthening venue operation hours, and expanding access to self-exclusion programs.
The revised approach has come under heightened scrutiny following recent correspondence from the Liquor and Gaming Commission, which cautioned that elements of the new strategy could potentially heighten gambling-related harm.
Treasurer Eric Abetz stood by the government’s direction, stating that the measures are “designed to be practical, proportionate and respectful of individual choice” and asserting that the combined reforms should be evaluated as a single package, not in isolation.
Comparative Perspective: Tasmania Versus Larger States
Despite reaching a record in pokies losses, Tasmania does not lead Australian states by per capita losses. Queensland reported roughly $4 billion in poker machine losses during the same timeframe, translating to more than $700 per resident. New South Wales saw $9.3 billion lost to poker machines in 2025, exceeding $1,000 per person.
| State | Total Annual Losses | Per Capita Loss |
|---|---|---|
| Tasmania | $208.27 million | ~$360 |
| Queensland | $4 billion | >$700 |
| New South Wales | $9.3 billion | >$1,000 |
Industry Structure and Regulatory Shifts
Meg Webb also referenced changes made in 2023, when Tasmania overhauled its poker machine licensing, enabling venues to retain a greater portion of gambling revenue. She argued that these licensing reforms have encouraged competition among venues and contributed to the escalation in gambling losses, claiming the current regulatory framework favors industry interests over consumer protections and public health.
- Author
Daniel Williams
