Where "Pokies" Comes From
“Pokies” is Australian slang for poker machines, or slot machines — a straightforward clip of “poker machine” with the classic Aussie “-ie” ending.
The machines first turned up in Melbourne pubs in 1895, were banned nationwide by 1898, survived illegally in clubs for decades, and were finally legalised in NSW registered clubs in 1956, kicking off the huge club gambling scene Australia's known for today.
He dropped fifty bucks on the pokies at the local club.
How Aussies Actually Use It
A staple word in everyday conversation about pubs and clubs — “having a go on the pokies” is a very ordinary Friday-night activity for some.
Also central to serious public debate around gambling harm and regulation in Australia.
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