Australia has always had a strong connection with gambling. From the clinking pokies in local pubs to high-roller rooms in glittering casinos, Aussies love a good punt. In fact, studies show that Australians spend more on gambling per capita than almost any other country in the world. But what casino games do Aussies actually play the most?
In this post, we’ll explore the most popular casino games among Australians, why they’ve become household favorites, and what makes the Aussie gambling scene so unique.
1. Pokies—The King of Aussie Casinos
No surprise here: pokies (slot machines) are the number one casino game in Australia. Walk into any pub, club, or casino across the country, and you’ll hear the familiar sound of reels spinning and coins clinking.
Why Aussies Love Pokies
- Accessibility—They’re everywhere: pubs, RSLs, clubs, and of course online.
- Variety—Thousands of themes, from classic fruit machines to modern video pokies.
- Simplicity—no need to learn strategy. Just spin and hope for a win.
Fun Fact
Over 80% of gambling revenue in Australia comes from pokies. That’s more than horse racing, sports betting, and table games combined!
2. Blackjack—A True Classic
Blackjack has long been a favorite among Aussie casino-goers. Known for its mix of luck and strategy, it appeals to punters who like to feel in control.
Why Aussies Play Blackjack
- Low house edge—one of the best chances to beat the casino.
- Simple rules—get as close to 21 without going bust.
- Fast-paced—Quick rounds make it exciting.
Online casinos have made blackjack even more popular, with live dealer tables giving punters that authentic Vegas feel without leaving home.
3. Roulette – The Spin That Thrills
Roulette is a casino staple, and Aussies are no exception to its appeal. Whether it’s the classic European wheel or the faster-paced American version, the thrill of watching the ball land never gets old.
Why It’s Popular in Australia
- Easy to learn—place your chips on red, black, or numbers.
- High payouts—a straight number bet pays 35 to 1.
- Social atmosphere—often played with groups cheering around the table.
4. Baccarat—The High Roller’s Choice
While not as mainstream as pokies or blackjack, baccarat has a strong following among high-stakes players in Australia. Popular in big city casinos like Crown Melbourne and The Star Sydney, it’s a game of chance with simple rules.
Why Aussies Play Baccarat
- High roller appeal—common in VIP rooms.
- Low house edge—Banker bets are some of the best in the casino.
- Fast rounds—keeps adrenaline pumping.
5. Craps—Rare But Loved
Craps isn’t as common in Aussie casinos as it is in the U.S., but where it’s available, it draws big crowds. The energy at a craps table is unmatched, with punters cheering on the shooter.
Why Aussies Like Craps (When Available)
- Social excitement—everyone wins together on hot rolls.
- Variety of bets—plenty of ways to punt.
- Hollywood appeal—seen in countless casino films.
6. Video Poker—A Quiet Favourite
Somewhere between pokies and table games lies video poker. Aussies who enjoy strategy but still want machine play often lean towards this game.
Key Appeal
- Better odds than pokies
- Simple strategy
- Familiar format for machine lovers
7. Sports Betting—Beyond the Casino Floor
While not technically a casino game, no list of Aussie gambling favorites would be complete without sports betting. Aussies are mad for punting on the footy, cricket, horse racing, and more.
Popular Aussie Bets
- AFL & NRL – Local footy is a betting powerhouse.
- The Melbourne Cup—”The “race that stops the nation.”
- Cricket – Test matches and Big Bash League.
With the rise of online betting apps, sports wagering is more accessible than ever.
8. Keno – The Pub Favourite
Keno is another uniquely Aussie favorite, often found in pubs and clubs. Players pick numbers and watch the draw on TV screens while enjoying a beer.
Why Aussies Love Keno
- Laid-back vibe—easy to play while socializing.
- Quick draws—Games run every few minutes.
- Low entry cost—you can play for just a few dollars.
9. Live Dealer Games—The Online Trend
With online casinos growing in popularity, live dealer games have become a hit among Aussie punters. Whether it’s blackjack, roulette, or baccarat, live dealers bring the casino floor straight to your screen.
Why They’re Popular
- Real casino feel—streamed in HD from studios.
- Interactive—Chat with dealers and players.
- Convenience – Play anytime, anywhere.
Responsible Gambling in Australia
While Aussies love a punt, it’s important to mention responsible gambling. Most casinos and online platforms in Australia promote responsible play with tools like deposit limits, time reminders, and self-exclusion options.
Tips for Safe Gambling
- Set a budget and stick to it.
- Treat gambling as entertainment, not income.
- Take breaks and avoid chasing losses.
Conclusion
From pokies in pubs to high-stakes baccarat tables in luxury casinos, Aussies have a wide variety of games to choose from. Pokies remain king, but classics like blackjack, roulette, and sports betting continue to dominate the scene.
Whether you’re spinning reels online, cheering at the craps table, or placing a bet on the footy, gambling is a big part of Aussie culture. Just remember: play responsibly and enjoy the ride.
