The Best Online Pokies in Australia for Real Money

Pokies have a long history that dates back to brick-and-mortar casinos in Las Vegas in the 1960s. However, since the nineties internet came along, playing online pokies for real money has become very popular for many Aussies.

The name ‘pokies’ comes from the term ‘poker machine’. The theory is, the original poker machines were joined by their cousins the slot machines in land-based casinos, and they all got grouped together under the one title. So now, online slots in Australia or video poker games are simply known as pokies.

Nowadays, playing online real money pokies in Australia is simple. All you need to do is choose one of our recommended casinos, create an account, make a deposit and then choose your favourite pokies game. The best thing about many online casinos is they offer a sign-up bonus or promotion. So, you’ll be able to claim some free spins when you join an online casino in Australia.

Playing online pokies for real money is always fun, but Aussie online pokies are quite volatile. Depending on the pokie you choose, your chances of winning can be greater of not. Although we recommend the best online pokies, payout percentages, volatility and other factors can influence the outcome although always remember that pokies are completely random.

Recently there have been some big wins that’ll inspire you to keep playing online pokies for real money.

In April 2021 at the Belgian Napolean Sports & Casino site, a lucky player won a huge $23.6million, after playing Mad Mega Moolah by Microgaming. This win was surpassed by the previous Mega Moolah win of $23.5million in 2018.

There are different types of online pokies for real money to play at online casinos and each one offers players heaps of ways to win.
As technology develops, so do pokies. There are now more to choose from, with top graphics and features. Let’s take a look at the most popular types:

• 3-Reel Pokies: These pokies have a single pay line or more, and many have bonus features that increase your chance of winning. Bonus features are activated when you land on a certain number of symbols or special bonus items.
• 5-Reel Pokies: As one of the most popular pokies at online casinos, 5-reel pokies often have a theme, contain wild symbols and include multi-level bonus games.
• 7-Reel Pokies: With a higher number of multi-paylines and increased bonus features, players have more chances of winning when playing 7-reel pokies. This version isn’t as popular as
• 5-reel pokies but they’re out there.
• 3d Pokies: The latest in graphic technology means incredible graphics that really bring you into the game. On a par with console gameplay, you’ll soon be totally immersed.
• Progressive Jackpots: This popular pokie has a prize pool that increases every time the game is played but not won. The prize continues to grow until a lucky player hits the winning combination, receiving the entire accumulated amount.

As your trusted source for the best online casinos and real money pokies, we’re here to also keep Aussie players informed about the latest laws, licensing requirements, and gambling regulations across the country.

Key Australian Gambling Laws

Online gambling in Australia is regulated primarily under the Interactive Gambling Act 2001, which outlines what is and isn’t allowed for both providers and players. The Amendment Act 2016 further clarified responsibilities for offshore operators.

To legally operate, online casinos must hold an Australian licence or be registered with a recognised international body. Gambling services are monitored by state & territory gambling regulators, ensuring player protection and fair play.

State & Territory Gambling Regulators

Each region in Australia has its own regulatory body:

• New South Wales (NSW): Liquor & Gaming NSW is the regulatory body responsible for gambling in New South Wales. They regulate various forms of gambling, including online casinos, gaming machines, lotteries, and wagering. Established in 2016, this commission helps create and sustain a responsible and safe gaming and liquor industry.
• Victoria: The Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation (VCGLR) is an independent regulatory authority that regulates and provides licenses. Since 2022, the commission requires gambling operators maintain safe and fair practices within the gambling industry.
• Queensland: The Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation (OLGR) is responsible for regulating gambling activities in Queensland. The OLGR issues licenses to gaming operators that go through regular verification processes to ensure they maintain industry standards.
• Western Australia: The Gaming and Wagering Commission of Western Australia regulates gambling in Western Australia. Besides ensuring that fair practices are maintained in the industry, the GWCWA approves licences and works to reduce the negative impact that gambling may have on the community.
• South Australia: The Independent Gambling Authority (IGA) was established in 2018 and since then it has been a regulatory body for gambling in South Australia. The LGC issues gaming licenses, regulates casinos, gaming machines, lotteries, and wagering in the state.
• Tasmania: The Tasmanian Liquor and Gaming Commission (TLGC) is responsible for regulating gambling activities in Tasmania. Gaming operators are required to hold the appropriate license or permits and follow a Mandatory Code of Practice to be approved.
• Australian Capital Territory (ACT): The ACT Gambling and Racing Commission is the regulatory authority for gambling in the Australian Capital Territory. Since 1999, this regulatory body not only regulate and approve gambling, and racing activities in the area, but it also promotes fair and safe practices that protect consumers.
• Northern Territory: The Northern Territory Racing Commission (NTRC) is responsible for regulating gambling activities in the Northern Territory. The Racing and Betting Act was established in 1983 and since then the NTRC has worked to ensure fairness and promote integrity within the gambling industry in the Northern Territory.

These organisations license casinos, audit operations, and investigate complaints, ensuring strict standards are upheld across the board.

Promoting Responsible Gambling

We fully support responsible gambling and encourage all players to set limits and stay in control. Support services like Gambling Help Online and local hotlines are available 24/7 for anyone needing assistance. Look for casinos that offer self-exclusion tools, deposit limits, and support from third-party services to keep your play healthy and fun.