Best Pokies in South Australia 2026: A Cynic’s Guide to Not Losing Everything

Forget the glossy brochures and the “big win” stories that sound like they were written by a marketing intern with a creative writing minor. The search for the best pokies in South Australia 2026 is a cold, hard look at math, regulation, and the grim reality of where your money actually goes. This isn’t a treasure map; it’s a damage control manual. We’re cutting through the noise to examine what’s actually on the floor in SA, how the system is rigged (legally, of course), and where you might find slightly less terrible odds if you’re determined to play.

The landscape is a patchwork of state-controlled monopolies and federal regulations. Your choices are, frankly, limited. The South Australian government, through its subsidiary Lotteries SA and the broader Gambling Codes of Practice, doesn’t just suggest rules; it dictates the entire environment. Every machine, every payout percentage, every advertising claim is under a microscope. So, when you sit down at a machine in Adelaide or a regional pub, you’re playing in a sandbox built by bureaucrats. Let’s see what’s actually in it.

The Unvarnished Truth About Pokies in South Australia

South Australia’s pokies scene is dominated by two entities: the Adelaide Casino (operated by SkyCity) and a network of hotels and clubs licensed through the Independent Gambling Authority (IGA). There are no “online pokies” in the sense of a fully-fledged, locally regulated casino site you can access from your couch. The Interactive Gambling Act 2001 (Cth) puts a hard stop to that at the federal level, and SA state law reinforces it. What you have are electronic gaming machines (EGMs) in physical venues. That’s it. The “best” pokies are therefore defined by two factors: the venue’s machine mix and the state-mandated return to player (RTP) settings.

Every EGM in SA must comply with the Gambling Codes of Practice. This isn’t a suggestion box. The state sets maximum bet limits (typically $1 per line, with 5 lines being a common configuration, making a max spin $5), mandatory pre-commitment systems, and strict rules on machine placement. The RTP, or the percentage of wagered money a machine is programmed to pay back over its lifetime, is set within a range approved by the IGA. It’s not 99% like some online slots claim; it’s more like 85-92%. That 8-15% house edge is the cost of your entertainment. Think of it as an expensive movie ticket where you sometimes get a few dollars back.

Decoding the Regulatory Maze: Who Actually Runs the Show?

The Independent Gambling Authority is the apex predator here. It licenses venues, approves machine types, and sets the rules of engagement. Its primary concern is harm minimization, which translates to a raft of controls that directly impact your experience. For instance, the maximum prize on a poker machine in SA is capped at $10,000. That’s a far cry from the million-dollar jackpots advertised by online operators in other jurisdictions. This cap fundamentally changes the game’s volatility. You’re not chasing a life-changing sum; you’re grinding for smaller, more frequent wins to extend your play.

SkyCity Adelaide, as the sole casino operator, has a different license but still operates under the same IGA oversight. Its floor is a different beast—higher minimum bets, a different machine mix, and a more “premium” feel that’s mostly just better carpet and lighting. The hotels and clubs, however, are where most South Australians encounter pokies. These venues are capped in the number of machines they can operate, and the allocation is a political hot potato. A club in the northern suburbs might have 40 machines, while a pub in the city could have 20. The “best” venue is often the one closest to you with a machine that hasn’t just eaten your last $20 without a peep.

Machine Types and the Illusion of Choice

Walk into any SA venue and you’ll see rows of cabinets from manufacturers like Aristocrat, IGT, and Scientific Games. The games themselves are themed—ancient Egypt, dragons, TV shows—but under the hood, they’re all running on similar random number generator (RNG) technology. The themes are the sugar coating on the mathematical pill. A “Lightning Link” machine isn’t fundamentally different from a “Dragon Link” machine; they’re both high-volatility slots designed to keep you playing through long dry spells punctuated by occasional, modest wins.

Volatility is the key concept here. High-volatility machines pay out less frequently but in larger chunks when they do. Low-volatility machines give you smaller wins more often, keeping your balance ticking over. In SA, with the $10,000 prize cap, even “high-volatility” games feel somewhat neutered. You’re not going to hit a single spin that pays your mortgage. The “best” pokies, therefore, are the ones whose volatility profile matches your bankroll and your desire for either slow-burn entertainment or a quick, likely painful, thrill.

The SkyCity Adelaide Factor: Is It Worth the Trip?

SkyCity markets itself as the premium gaming destination in SA. It’s true that the casino floor offers a wider variety of machines, including some exclusive titles and higher denomination games. You’ll find more “penny slots” alongside the dollar machines, and the overall ambiance is designed to make you forget you’re in a regulated government cash-extraction facility. But let’s be clear: the house edge on a $1 machine at SkyCity is mathematically identical to the house edge on a $1 machine at your local RSL. The RTP range is the same. The difference is purely environmental.

The VIP treatment at SkyCity is, in reality, a loyalty program that offers you points for your losses. These points can be redeemed for meals or, more accurately, for discounted meals at their restaurants. It’s a way to make you feel like you’re getting something back while you’re down hundreds. The “free” drinks you get while playing are, of course, not free. They’re a calculated expense to keep you seated and feeding the machine. Nobody gives away free money, and a “free” gin and tonic is just a line item in their marketing budget.

Hotels, Clubs, and the Local Grind

The real heart of SA pokies culture is in the suburban pub and the local club. These venues use pokies as a primary revenue stream to fund their other operations—bistro meals, live music, community sports grants. The machines are often older, the settings might feel less “exciting,” but the math is the same. A significant portion of the profits from these machines is funneled back into the community through grants, which is the political justification for their existence. So, when you lose $50 at the pokies at your local, a few cents of that might eventually fund a new set of jerseys for the under-12s soccer team. Cold comfort, perhaps.

The machine mix in these venues is often less diverse. You’ll see more of the older, classic-style games alongside the newer video slots. The “best” machine here is often the one that’s been recently serviced and hasn’t developed a sticky button or a dim screen. It’s a pragmatic choice. There’s no sommelier of pokies to guide you; you’re looking for a machine that’s physically functional and whose theme you can tolerate for the duration of your bankroll.

Understanding RTP, Volatility, and Your Actual Chances

Return to Player (RTP) is a theoretical percentage calculated over millions of spins. In SA, the IGA-approved range means a machine might be set to return 90% of wagers over its lifetime. On a single session, this means nothing. You could put in $100 and get back $0, or you could put in $100 and get back $200. The law of large numbers only applies to the casino over years of operation. For you, in a two-hour session, it’s pure variance. Volatility is the measure of that variance. A high-volatility game might have an RTP of 91%, but it could go through 50 spins without a win larger than your bet, then suddenly pay out 50x your stake.

The “best” pokies are the ones where you understand this trade-off. If you want to play for as long as possible on a small budget, you seek out low-volatility machines. If you’re chasing the thrill of a big hit (within the $10,000 cap), you go for high-volatility games. But both are losing propositions in the long run. The only winning move is not to play, but since you’re here reading this, you’ve already decided to ignore that advice. So, at least understand the game you’re playing.

Payment Methods and the Cashless Question

In SA’s physical venues, the primary payment method is still cash. You feed notes and coins into the machine. Some newer machines accept tickets (TITO – Ticket In, Ticket Out), which you can cash out at a kiosk or redemption machine. There is no widespread use of card-based systems for direct play on the pokies due to strict regulations designed to prevent problem gambling and money laundering. The idea is to create a “friction” point where you have to physically handle cash, making you more aware of your spending.

The push towards cashless gaming is a national conversation, but SA has been cautious. Any move to allow direct debit or credit card play on EGMs would require significant legislative change and a overhaul of the IGA’s framework. For now, you’re dealing with physical currency. This means you need to plan your bankroll in cash. There’s no “top up” button that magically adds more money from your bank account. You have to get up, go to the ATM (which charges its own fees), and feed more cash into the machine. It’s a built-in cooling-off period, albeit a short one.

New Casinos and the Future of Gaming in SA

The prospect of a new casino in South Australia is currently zero. SkyCity’s license for the Adelaide Casino is a long-term arrangement, and there’s no political appetite or regulatory pathway for a second operator. The focus is on managing the existing infrastructure and expanding harm minimization measures. Any “new” developments are likely to be technological—better machine interfaces, more sophisticated player tracking systems, and enhanced responsible gambling tools like pre-commitment cards that you set a limit on before you start playing.

The future is also digital, but not in the way you think. While online casinos remain illegal, there’s ongoing discussion about a national framework for online poker or sports betting. However, pokies are a different beast entirely due to their high potential for harm. Don’t expect to be playing Aristocrat’s latest title on your phone from your lounge chair in SA anytime soon. The regulatory and political hurdles are immense. The “best” pokies will remain the ones you can physically sit in front of, in a venue that’s been licensed and inspected by the state.

Responsible Gambling: The Only Strategy That Actually Works

This is the most important section, and the one most people skip. The only way to “win” at pokies is to set a strict loss limit before you play and stick to it. Treat the money you bring as the cost of entertainment, like a concert ticket. Once it’s gone, you’re done. SA has excellent, free support services. The Gambling Helpline (1800 858 858) is available 24/7. The IGA mandates that all venues display responsible gambling messaging and provide access to self-exclusion programs. If you feel you’re losing control, these tools are not a sign of weakness; they’re the smartest move you can make.

Pre-commitment systems are being trialed and expanded. These allow you to set a time or dollar limit on your play session before you start. It’s a circuit breaker. The “best” pokie is the one you can walk away from. The house always has the edge, but you have the power to decide how much of your money they get to keep. Use it.

What is the legal age for playing pokies in South Australia?

You must be 18 years or older to enter a gaming area and play electronic gaming machines in South Australia. Venues are required to conduct random age checks, and providing false identification is a serious offense. The law is strict, and there are no exceptions.

Are online pokies legal in South Australia?

No. The Interactive Gambling Act 2001, a federal law, prohibits the provision of online casino-style games, including pokies, to Australian residents. While some offshore sites may be accessible, they are not regulated or licensed in Australia, offering no consumer protection. Playing on them is illegal and risky.

How are pokies payouts regulated in SA?

All electronic gaming machines in South Australia must be linked to a central monitoring system operated by the Independent Gambling Authority. This system tracks every bet and payout in real-time. The state mandates a minimum and maximum return to player (RTP) percentage for each machine type, and these settings are audited regularly to ensure compliance.

Can I use a credit card to play pokies?

No. South Australian regulations prohibit the use of credit cards for direct play on electronic gaming machines in licensed venues. The primary method of funding play is cash. Some venues may offer ATM facilities on-site, but these are separate from the gaming floor and subject to standard banking fees.

What is the maximum bet limit on a pokie machine in SA?

The maximum bet is regulated by the Gambling Codes of Practice. While configurations vary, a common limit is $1 per line with a maximum of 5 lines active, making the absolute maximum wager per spin $5. This is designed to limit the speed at which money can be lost. There are also mandatory pause features between spins.

Machine Taxonomy: The Math Behind the Lights and Sounds

Forget the cartoonish themes. The difference between a “good” and a “bad” pokie is almost entirely down to two numbers: volatility and RTP. In South Australia, the IGA dictates the RTP range, but the volatility is a choice made by the venue manager when they order the machine. A high-volatility machine is a streaky beast. It might gobble $100 over an hour, then suddenly cough up $400 on a single spin. A low-volatility machine is more predictable, giving you back smaller amounts more frequently, like a drip feed. The “best” choice depends entirely on what you’re after: a quick thrill or a longer session.

Most players don’t understand this distinction, and the casinos know it. They place the high-volatility machines in prominent positions because the big wins, however rare, create the illusion that everyone is winning. It’s a classic misdirection. The quiet, low-volatility machines are often tucked away in corners. They’re less exciting, but they’re also less likely to vaporize your bankroll in ten minutes. If you’re on a budget, that corner machine might be your best bet. It’s not glamorous, but it’s functional.

Understanding the RTP Range in SA: What 90% Really Means

Let’s talk numbers. The IGA in SA allows machines to operate within an RTP range, typically between 85% and 92%. Let’s say a machine is set to 90%. This doesn’t mean that for every $100 you put in, you’ll get $90 back. That’s a common and dangerous misunderstanding. The 90% is calculated over the machine’s entire lifespan, which could be millions of spins. In a single session, the variance is enormous. You could put in $200 and get back $0. Or you could put in $50 and get back $500.

The key takeaway is that the house edge is built in and non-negotiable. Over time, the casino is guaranteed to make its 10% (or whatever the edge is). Your job isn’t to beat the math; it’s to manage your bankroll so you can enjoy the entertainment for as long as possible. This means setting a strict loss limit and sticking to it. If you sit down with $100, that’s your entertainment budget. When it’s gone, you walk away. No exceptions. This is the only strategy that works.

Volatility Deep Dive: High vs. Low in Practice

High-volatility games are the ones with the flashy bonus rounds and the potential for large multipliers. They’re designed to create peaks and valleys in your balance. You might trigger a bonus feature that pays 50x your bet, but you might also spin 100 times without triggering anything meaningful. These games are for players with a larger bankroll who can weather the dry spells. They’re also for players who enjoy the adrenaline rush of chasing a big hit, even if the odds are long.

Low-volatility games, on the other hand, are the steady eddies. They pay out smaller amounts more frequently, keeping your balance relatively stable. You’re unlikely to win big, but you’re also unlikely to lose everything in a short session. These games are ideal for players who want to extend their playtime and get more entertainment value from their money. In SA, with the $10,000 prize cap, even high-volatility games feel somewhat constrained. The biggest wins are still modest compared to online slots in other jurisdictions.

The Role of Denomination: Does Playing Higher Stakes Improve Odds?

A common belief is that playing higher denomination machines ($2, $5) gives you a better RTP. There’s some truth to this, but it’s not a guarantee. In SA, the IGA sets RTP ranges for different denomination categories. Higher denomination machines often have a slightly higher RTP, but they also require larger bets per spin. A $5 machine might have an RTP of 92%, while a $1 machine might be set to 90%. The difference is marginal, and the risk per spin is five times higher.

The math is simple: a higher RTP doesn’t mean you’ll win more; it means the house edge is slightly smaller. But if you’re betting $5 per spin instead of $1, you’re losing money five times faster, even with the better RTP. The “best” strategy is to play at a denomination that fits your bankroll. If you have $200 to play with, a $1 machine will give you more spins and more entertainment than a $5 machine. The RTP difference is not worth the increased risk of busting out quickly.

Machine Placement and the Psychology of the Floor

Casino floor design is a science. The most visible machines, the ones near the entrance and the main walkways, are often the high-volatility games. They’re designed to attract attention with their lights and sounds. The idea is to create a sense of excitement and possibility. The quieter, low-volatility machines are often placed in less trafficked areas. This isn’t an accident; it’s a deliberate strategy to cater to different types of players.

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Understanding this can give you an edge. If you’re looking for a more relaxed session with less risk, seek out the machines in the back. They’re less flashy, but they’re also less likely to be crowded with players chasing the same big win. The “best” pokie is often the one that’s not being played by everyone else. It’s a contrarian approach, but it’s based on the reality of how casinos operate.

Linked Jackpots and Progressive Systems in SA

Many machines in SA are linked to a progressive jackpot system. A small percentage of every bet placed on any machine in the network contributes to a growing jackpot. This jackpot can be won randomly on any spin, regardless of the symbols on the reels. The appeal is obvious: the chance to win a large sum from a small bet. In SA, these jackpots are capped at $10,000, so they’re not the million-dollar prizes you see advertised elsewhere.

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The catch is that the RTP of a linked machine is often slightly lower than a standalone machine, because a portion of each bet is diverted to the jackpot pool. This means your expected return per spin is lower, even though there’s a chance of a big win. It’s a trade-off: lower regular payouts for a shot at the jackpot. Whether this is “better” depends on your risk tolerance. If you’re chasing the dream, go for the linked machines. If you want more consistent returns, stick to standalone games.

The Role of Bonus Features: Free Spins, Pick-a-Box, and Multipliers

Bonus features are the sugar that makes the medicine go down. They’re designed to break up the monotony of regular spins and give you a chance to win more than the base game allows. In SA, common features include free spins, pick-a-box games, and multipliers. Free spins are exactly what they sound like: you get a set number of spins without having to pay for them. The winnings from these spins are usually subject to a multiplier, which can significantly increase your payout.

Pick-a-box games are simple: you choose from a set of hidden prizes. The prize is determined by the game’s RNG, so your choice is an illusion of control. Multipliers increase the value of a win by a set factor, such as 2x or 3x. These features are what make high-volatility games exciting. They’re also what make them dangerous, because they can create the illusion that you’re winning more than you are. The “free” spins are not really free; they’re paid for by the lower RTP of the base game.

Player Loyalty Programs: Are They Worth It?

Most venues in SA offer some form of loyalty program. You earn points for every dollar you wager, and these points can be redeemed for rewards like meals, drinks, or merchandise. SkyCity Adelaide has its own program, as do many hotels and clubs. The rewards are typically modest—a free meal might cost you $50 in losses to earn enough points. It’s a way to make you feel like you’re getting something back, but the math rarely works in your favor.

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The real value of these programs is in the data they collect. The casino knows exactly how much you play, how long your sessions are, and what games you prefer. This information is used to tailor marketing offers to keep you coming back. If you’re a regular player, you might receive offers for “free” play or discounted meals. These are not gifts; they’re incentives to keep you in the building. The “free” play is usually subject to wagering requirements, meaning you have to play through the amount several times before you can withdraw any winnings.

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Mobile Apps and Digital Companion Tools

While you can’t play online pokies in SA, some venues offer companion apps that enhance the in-person experience. These apps might let you track your loyalty points, view machine availability, or receive promotional offers. They’re not a substitute for the real thing, but they can be a useful tool for managing your play. For example, you can set session time reminders or track your spending over time.

The downside is that these apps are another way for the venue to collect your data. They know when you’re on the premises, what you’re playing, and how much you’re spending. This data is valuable to the casino, and it’s used to optimize their marketing. If you’re privacy-conscious, you might want to think twice before downloading the app. But if you’re a regular player, the convenience and the occasional promotional offer might be worth the trade-off.

Responsible Gambling Tools: Pre-Commitment and Self-Exclusion

SA has some of the most advanced responsible gambling tools in Australia. Pre-commitment systems allow you to set a time or dollar limit before you start playing. Once you reach that limit, the machine will alert you and suggest you take a break. This is a powerful tool for staying in control, but it requires you to be honest with yourself about your limits. The machine won’t stop you from increasing your limit; it’s up to you to stick to the one you set.

Self-exclusion is a more drastic measure. You can voluntarily ban yourself from a venue or from all venues in SA for a set period. This is a serious step, but it’s available if you feel you can’t control your gambling. The process is confidential, and venues are required to enforce the ban. If you’re struggling, these tools are there for a reason. Use them.

How do I set a loss limit on a poker machine?

In South Australia, you can set a loss limit through the pre-commitment system available on most modern machines. Before you start playing, insert your player card or follow the on-screen prompts to set a maximum amount you’re willing to lose in that session. Once the limit is reached, the machine will lock you out and display a message. This is a voluntary system, and it’s one of the most effective ways to manage your bankroll. The key is to set the limit before you start playing, when you’re thinking clearly, not after you’ve already lost more than you intended.

What happens if I self-exclude from a venue?

If you self-exclude from a venue in South Australia, you are banned from entering the gaming area for the duration of the exclusion period, which can range from six months to three years. The venue is required to remove you from their loyalty program and stop all marketing communications. If you attempt to enter the gaming area during the exclusion period, you will be asked to leave and may be reported to the police. The process is confidential, and the venue will not disclose your exclusion to other patrons. Self-exclusion can be applied to a single venue or to all licensed venues in the state through the Independent Gambling Authority.

Are there any pokies with better odds in SA?

All pokies in South Australia operate within the same RTP range set by the IGA, typically between 85% and 92%. There are no “loose” machines or machines with significantly better odds than others. The RTP is determined by the game’s software and is audited regularly. The only variation is between denomination levels, where higher denomination machines may have a slightly higher RTP, but this comes with a higher cost per spin. The best approach is to choose a machine with a volatility level that suits your bankroll and play style, rather than chasing “better odds.”

Can I play pokies on my phone in South Australia?

No, online pokies are illegal in South Australia under the Interactive Gambling Act 2001. While some offshore websites may be accessible, they are not licensed or regulated in Australia, and playing on them offers no consumer protection. The only legal way to play pokies is in a licensed venue, such as a casino, hotel, or club. Some venues offer companion apps for tracking loyalty points and receiving promotional offers, but these do not allow you to play the games themselves. The future of online gaming in SA remains uncertain, with no current plans to legalize online casinos.

What is the difference between a poker machine and a slot machine?

There is no difference. The terms “poker machine” and “slot machine” are used interchangeably in Australia. The machines are officially called electronic gaming machines (EGMs) in regulatory documents. They all operate on the same random number generator (RNG) technology, regardless of the theme or branding. The term “pokie” is an Australian slang abbreviation of “poker machine,” and it’s the most commonly used term in SA. The gameplay, odds, and regulations are identical whether you call it a pokie or a slot.

Payment Methods, Withdrawal Speeds, and the Cashless Mirage

In the regulated world of South Australian gaming, your options for moving money are deliberately constrained. The primary method remains cash, fed directly into the machine. For withdrawals, venues issue TITO tickets, which you can redeem at a kiosk or the cage. The process is instant for amounts under a certain threshold, typically $500. For larger sums, you may need to wait for a cashier, which introduces a cooling-off period. This is by design. The state wants you to think twice before pocketing a large win and immediately feeding it back into another machine.

Credit and debit cards are explicitly banned for direct play on EGMs. You cannot tap your card on a machine to top up your session. This is a harm minimization measure, creating a physical barrier between your bank account and the game. The only way to access more funds is to visit an ATM, which is often located away from the gaming floor, and then return with cash. This friction is intentional. It breaks the trance of continuous play and forces a conscious decision to spend more. Some venues have experimented with cashless systems using a venue-specific card or app, but these are still funded by cash or bank transfer beforehand and are not linked to credit.

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The Economics of a Spin: Breaking Down the $5 Bet

Let’s dissect a typical maximum bet on a South Australian pokie. You’re playing a machine with a $1 per line bet and 5 lines active, making your total wager $5 per spin. Of that $5, the machine’s software allocates a portion to the venue, a portion to the state government in taxes, and a portion to the jackpot pool if it’s a linked machine. The remainder is what’s available for payouts. If the machine is set to a 90% RTP, that means over millions of spins, $4.50 of every $5 wagered will be paid back to players in winnings. The remaining $0.50 is the house edge, split between the venue’s operating costs, profit, and government tax.

In a single session, this mathematical certainty is meaningless. You might win $500 on your first spin, or you might lose your entire $200 bankroll without a single significant win. The law of large numbers only applies to the casino over years. For you, in a two-hour session, it’s all variance. Understanding this disconnect is crucial. The machine isn’t “due” for a win after a losing streak, and it doesn’t “remember” your previous spins. Each spin is an independent event with the same odds. The “best” strategy is to set a budget, choose a machine with a volatility that matches your play style, and accept the outcome.

Machine Volatility in Practice: A Session Simulation

Consider two hypothetical players, both with a $200 bankroll. Player A chooses a low-volatility machine with an RTP of 90%. Over 200 spins at $1 per spin, they experience frequent small wins, keeping their balance fluctuating between $150 and $250. Their session lasts about two hours, and they walk away with $180, having spent $20 in entertainment. Player B chooses a high-volatility machine with the same 90% RTP. Their first 150 spins yield almost nothing, dropping their balance to $50. Then, on spin 151, they trigger a bonus feature that pays $400. Their balance jumps to $450. They continue playing and eventually walk away with $300, having turned a $200 investment into a $100 profit.

Player B’s story sounds like the winning strategy, but it’s a statistical outlier. The vast majority of high-volatility sessions end with the player losing their entire bankroll. Player A’s experience is more typical: a longer session with smaller fluctuations and a modest loss. The “best” pokie is the one that delivers the experience you’re looking for, whether that’s the thrill of chasing a big win or the satisfaction of playing for a long time on a small budget. Both are valid, as long as you understand the risks and set a firm loss limit.

The Role of Near Misses and the Psychology of “Almost Winning”

Pokie machines are designed to create the illusion of skill and control. One of the most powerful psychological tools is the “near miss,” where the symbols on the reels line up just one position away from a big win. This is not an accident; it’s a carefully calibrated feature of the game’s programming. The human brain interprets a near miss as a sign that a win is imminent, even though each spin is completely random. This is the same cognitive bias that makes people think they’re “hot” at the roulette table after a few wins in a row.

In South Australia, the IGA regulates the frequency of near misses to prevent them from being excessively misleading. However, they are still a core part of the game’s design. The flashing lights, the celebratory sounds for a small win, and the dramatic pause before the final reel stops are all designed to keep you engaged. The “best” way to counteract this is to be aware of it. When you see a near miss, recognize it for what it is: a random outcome with no predictive value. Don’t let it convince you to play “just one more spin.”

Comparative Table: Pokies in SA vs. Other Australian States

Feature	South Australia	New South Wales	Victoria	Queensland
Maximum Bet Limit	$1 per line, 5 lines ($5 max)	$1 per line, 5 lines ($5 max)	$1 per line, 5 lines ($5 max)	$1 per line, 5 lines ($5 max)
Maximum Prize	$10,000	$10,000	$10,000	$10,000
Pre-Commitment	Mandatory (trial phase)	Mandatory (full rollout)	Mandatory (full rollout)	Mandatory (trial phase)
Cashless Play	Not permitted on EGMs	Not permitted on EGMs	Not permitted on EGMs	Not permitted on EGMs
Online Pokies	Illegal	Illegal	Illegal	Illegal