Tasmanians lost a total of $208.27 million to poker machines during the 2025-26 financial year, averaging around $360 per person. This figure represents a 6.9% increase compared to the previous year and surpasses losses recorded in 2011-12, when $208.15 million was lost, according to the state's Treasury Department, which has tracked monthly figures for 15 years.

While losses on pokies had been declining prior to the COVID pandemic, they have increased since then.

Independent MP Meg Webb described the amount lost as "horrifying," emphasizing the tangible consequences for Tasmanian families. She stated, "This is not theoretical harm, it is real-world impacts for Tasmanian families, including increases in homelessness, mental health crises, domestic violence, poverty, crime and loss of employment and education opportunities."

Mark Kempster from the Alliance for Gambling Reform said the data "should alarm every single Tasmanian." He criticized the political response, saying, "In a time where we are facing a generation-altering cost of living crisis, this is a number that every member of the state Liberal government and Labor opposition in Tasmania should be truly ashamed of."

Acting Premier Guy Barnett responded by noting the government's focus on harm minimisation measures related to gambling.

The issue has drawn sharp criticism, with some arguing that the government has allowed vested interests to override expert advice on public health and consumer protection, enabling the gambling industry to influence regulatory rules.

Sources