Play pokies in Sydney at local pub, club, hotel or land and online casinos. Many ask this question as where to play pokies in Sydney. A friend and former bouncer working at a hotel in Sydney spoke with us about a few of the commercial reasons behind the recent explosion of Pokies in Sydney and the rest of Australia. Here are places to play pokies in Sydney.
Site of Captain James Cook’s initial landing on the Australian continent, site of the first permanent European settlement, and capital is the heart of the nation and a great place for locals and tourists to enjoy the unstoppable phenomena that is Pokies!
Can you play pokies in Sydney?
Pokies and Gambling Laws in New South Wales
The office of Liquor and Gaming governs the regulatory framework for all gaming and wagering activities within NSW.
There are several acts of law which control gaming within the state, including the Casino Control Act 1992, Gambling (Two-up) Act 1998, Gambling and Liquor Administration Act 2007, Gaming Machine Act 2001, Gaming Machine Tax Act 2001, Lotteries and Art Unions Act 1901, Public Lotteries Act 1996, Registered Clubs Act 1976 and the Unlawful Gambling Act 1998.
Wagering comes under the Betting and Racing Act 1998 which outlines who may offer betting services, the events on which betting is permitted as well as additional requirements that betting service providers must comply with.
It is believed that out of all the world’s gaming machines, 20 per cent are within Australia. Currently, there are 93,364 registered gaming machines within the state, with a record $73 billion pumped through them throughout the 2014-2015 financial year.
The local area with the highest turnover was Fairfield, with gamblers pushing $7.6 billion through 3300 machines during the same period. Pokies machines in NSW must pay back 85 per cent of the money wagered on it per annum.
Where to play pokies in Sydney?
Following are the best places to play pokies in Sydney:
1. Star City Casino in Sydney
The casino is the second largest casino in Australia with Melbourne’s Crown Casino the biggest. Operating since November 1997 – five months ahead of schedule – Star City was developed by Leighton Properties and built by CPB Contractors.
You will find here over 1,500 pokies and 160 gaming tables at Star Casino. It is unparalleled as the ultimate gaming venue within the state. Additionally, it also features the 2,000-seat Lyric Theatre, a 900-seat showroom, seven restaurants, five bars, a nightclub, a private gaming room, shopping and food outlets, corporate meeting rooms, a hotel and residential facilities as well as an underground carpark catering for 2,500 vehicles.
Aristocrat the leading pokies manufacture at this casino
The pokie machines on offer at Star City Casino are dotted all around the casino floor and come in all different shapes and sizes, ranging all the way from your basic playing classic slots all the way through to the all action bonus video slots. Numerous leading pokies manufacturers also call Star City home including Aristocrat – the number one land based machine manufacturer in Australia.
Boasting high-end restaurants, brilliant bars, luxurious accommodation, an exquisite day spa, a thriving nightclub and a world-class casino, Star City is fast becoming one of the major attractions offered in the Harbor City. However, Star City is not the only venue which offers gaming – and specifically pokies – with most licensed pubs and clubs around the city featuring a variety of your favourite slots games.
Table games at Star City
There is plenty on offer at Star City besides gaming machines, with a stack of classic casino games such as blackjack, craps, baccarat, poker and roulette featured on the gaming floor – all with different stakes levels to suit all types of players.
There are also niche games to enjoy at Star City, with Pai Gow, Big Wheel, Casino War and Sic Bo also available to be played 24/7.
For the big time players, Star Casino also has a lavish world of private gaming worlds for their VIP players – however these are invitation only. You can apply for membership as an international, interstate or local member of Star City, with eligible members entitled to the premium membership access and benefits.
Top 10 Pubs and Clubs to play pokies in Sydney
10. Light Brigade Hotel
The Light Brigade Hotel is the first stop on our tour of pokies hot spots in Sydney. A great place for groups – it boasts a trendy, modern atmosphere and is well known for serving some of the best food and drinks in Woollahra .
9. The Sly Fox Pub
It is located on Enmore Rd, is a great destination for anyone looking to have a few beers, munch on some good food, and play a few rounds on their several dozen, modern pokies machines. The Sly Pub also offers Sydney’s largest “Lesbian Night” every Wednesday, if you are feeling daring! Newly renovate, this blue collar mecca is sure to be a favorite for both locals and travellers on holiday.
8. Tradies off of Manchester Road
Considered one of the of the best venues for some good old fashioned pub and chophouse style food. Don’t let the name fool you, this is a very chique establishment. Newly remodeled and renovated, it would be the perfect place to bring that special someone to dinner and get in a little pokies action at the same time!
7. Snake Creek Cattle Company Restaurant
It is a great place for families to go and get a bite to eat. The average price for a family of four to eat is about $85 but there are daily specials to help lasso in that price. What sets Snake Creek Cattle Company apart from the rest is the fact that the kids can enjoy a good meal while Mom sneaks off to play some pokies and Dad enjoys a few brews at the fully-feature pub. A great place indeed!
6. Hillsdale Bowling Club
With a name like this, you would almost expect a dive establishment but that is quite the contrary! The Hillsdale Bowling Club is one of the premier venues for the sport of king’s BOWLING and also has a great selection of food, wine & beer, spirits, and most important of all – POKIES!
5. La Tapa Guapa Spanish Restaurant
As the name implies is a premier Spanish themed restaurant that offers Meditteranean cuisine on par with anything you would find on the Southern Coast of Espana. Consistently ranked as one of the best restaurants in Syndey, it can be found at the Sir John Young hotel on the corner of George and Liverpool.
4. The Dove & Olive
One of our reviewer’s favorite spots for “comfort foods” (and pokies) has been a perennial favorite among locals and tourists for years. Complete with bottle shop, this pub and restaurant is sure to satisfy your cravings for both food and pokies.
3. Pyrmonth Bridge Hotel
Sydney located in Surry Hills offers a bistro/brasserie, pub, modern Australian cuisine and atmosphere, and a host of the best new pokies machines.
2. Forty Baskets Restaurant
Trying to define the Forty Baskets Restaurant is very difficult. Because this establishment encapsulates so many diverse entertainments under one roof. Modern Australian cuisine is featured alongside some of the freshest seafood in Sydney. A Sports and RSL club, and plenty of machines to offer even the most discriminating player plenty to do after they eat their meal.
And finally, our number one destination in Sydney is…
1. The Bank Tavern
This is a great place for business meetings by day and hip, trendy dining well into the evening. Open on all major holidays; The Bank Bistro has great prices. It has meeting facilities, a romantic, intimate atmosphere for lovers, a great wine list; and a beautiful view of the District. All this comes together to make The Bank Tavern our favorite place to play pokies in Sydney.
Alternatives to playing the pokies at Sydney venues
Do you feel like experiencing the thrill of winning from the comfort of your own home? If so, you are in luck; because the world of online casinos is booming; giving gamblers the opportunity to play their favourite games anywhere, anytime on their computer, mobile phone or tablet.
Playing for free or real money, there are a multitude of options out there waiting for you. Whether you love slots, poker, blackjack, roulette – or any other game offered at a brick-and-mortar casino, we guarantee there is an online alternative just waiting for you.
1. Ripper Casino
This is the premium specialist pokies casino available online for Australian bettors. With over 1300 pokies games available; they range from your classic three-reel slots; through to your modern five reel games as well as progressive jackpots which offer millions of dollars in prizes.
2. Ozwin Casino
This Aussie online casino supports the best providers RTG gaming as mentioned above; with a generous unlimited welcome deposit bonus to maximise your chances of winning big.
3. Play Croco
This is one of our top rated online casino for Australian and international pokies aficionados who want to play for real money. Founded lately, it has quickly established long-standing reputation for quality and safety among Australian pokies enthusiasts.
Find best online casinos to play pokies in Sydney
How to play pokies in Sydney online?
Playing pokies at online casinos is a popular form of gaming in Sydney. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to play pokies at online casinos:
- Choose a Reputable Online Casino: Start by selecting a reputable and licensed online casino that offers a wide range of pokies. Look for casinos with good reviews, a solid reputation, and secure payment options.
- Create an Account: Once you’ve chosen an online casino, sign up for an account. You’ll typically need to provide some personal information and create a username and password.
- Make a Deposit: After creating your account, you’ll need to make a deposit to fund your casino account. Online casinos offer various payment methods such as credit/debit cards, e-wallets, bank transfers, and cryptocurrencies. Choose the option that suits you best and follow the instructions to make a deposit.
- Choose a Pokies Game: Once your account is funded, browse the casino’s game library and select a pokies game that appeals to you. Online casinos offer a wide variety of pokies with different themes, features, and paylines.
- Set Your Bet: Before spinning the reels, you’ll need to set your bet amount. Most pokies allow you to adjust the coin size and the number of coins you want to bet per line. Some games also have additional features like adjustable paylines. Set your bet amount within your budget and preferences.
- Spin the Reels: Once you’ve set your bet, click the “Spin” button to start the game. The reels will spin, and if you get a winning combination on the paylines, you’ll be awarded a payout based on the game’s paytable.
- Explore Bonus Features: Many pokies have bonus features such as free spins, multipliers, bonus rounds, and wild symbols. These features can enhance your winnings and add excitement to the gameplay. Familiarize yourself with the game’s rules and bonus features to make the most of your playing experience.
- Manage Your Bankroll: It’s essential to manage your bankroll responsibly when playing pokies. Set a budget for your gambling session and stick to it. Avoid chasing losses and know when to take breaks.
- Cash Out Your Winnings: If you’ve accumulated winnings and want to cash out, go to the casino’s cashier or banking section. Follow the instructions for withdrawals and choose the withdrawal method that suits you. Keep in mind that some casinos may have withdrawal limits or require verification before processing your withdrawal.
- Enjoy Responsibly: Online gambling should be a form of entertainment, so make sure to gamble responsibly. Set limits for your spending, take breaks, and don’t chase losses. If you feel that your gambling is becoming a problem, seek help from responsible gambling resources.
Remember to check the specific rules and regulations of the online casino you choose, as they may have slight variations in their processes and game offerings.
