Adelaide, Australia, November 4, 2026. Slot machines in South Australia generated AU$1.0796 billion in net revenue during the 2025–2026 financial year, approximately 7% more than the previous period. The government collected AU$494.37 million in taxes, while the number of machines increased despite its commitment to reduce them.
According to Consumer and Business Services (CBS), venues retained AU$585.23 million before operating expenses. Tax revenue represented 45.8% of net gaming revenue, calculated by deducting prizes paid from total wagers, under the Gaming Machines Act 1992. Between July and September 2026, players’ net losses reached AU$286.3 million, setting an all-time quarterly record. Annual revenue exceeded the previous year by AU$71 million and surpassed AU$1 billion for the second consecutive year.
Robert Simms
Salisbury led regional revenue with more than AU$109 million, followed by Port Adelaide Enfield, with AU$106 million. Playford recorded the highest average per venue: AU$6.1 million across ten establishments. The number of operating slot machines increased from 11,735 to 11,810, distributed across 461 hotels and clubs, excluding machines at SkyCity Adelaide Casino, which operate under a separate regulatory framework.
Anna Moeller
The state government, led by Peter Malinauskas, maintains its objective of reducing the number of machines. Robert Simms, leader of the Greens, criticized the increase and advocated phasing them out of hotels and clubs by 2030, supported by a AU$400 million transition fund. Anna Moeller, CEO of the Australian Hotels Association South Australia, warned that gaming machines support investment, renovations, and employment at regional establishments.
Regulatory oversight falls under CBS, headed by Brett Humphrey, within Minister Michael Brown’s portfolio. The system includes mandatory facial recognition at certain venues, automated risk monitoring, and the permanent Take a Break program, which allows players to request self-exclusion using QR codes. The debate coincides with the Melbourne Cup on November 3, an event for which nationwide betting was estimated at AU$351 million.
