Pokie

Pokie is a term used in Australia and New Zealand to refer to slot machines, both physical and online.

Origin

The word comes from "poker machine", the name of early gambling machines introduced in Australia in the early 1900s. These machines were based on poker hands. The name was shortened to “pokie” in typical Australian slang.

Usage

In local context, “pokie” refers to:

• Slot machines in pubs, clubs, and casinos

• Electronic gaming machines (EGMs)

• Online slots, although online casinos are prohibited in Australia under local law

Despite regulation, the term “pokie” is still widely used by users.