How COVID affected regional slot preferences

* (Slot Popularity by Australian State) *

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has become a turning point for the online gambling industry in Australia. Restrictions on the operation of land-based casinos, the growth of digital services and an increase in the time spent at home have stimulated the transition of players online. However, the impact of the pandemic was uneven: unique trends in slot selection were observed in different states.

New South Wales (NSW)

Due to the temporary closure of the largest terrestrial halls and clubs, NSW has become one of the leaders in the growth of online activity.
Interest in high volatility and fast payout slots has grown.
Players preferred well-known brands and licensed platforms with AUDs.

Victoria (VIC)

Hard and long lockdowns in Melbourne have strengthened the online segment.
The main bias is towards progressive jackpot slots, as players were looking for "big wins" amid limited entertainment options.
High activity in mobile applications, especially among young people.

Queensland (QLD)

Lockdowns were softer, so offline gambling retained part of the audience.
However, there is a noticeable increase in interest in live slots and social casinos.
Online slots were used as an alternative, but did not completely supplant the terrestrial format.

South Australia (SA)

Moderate growth in online gambling, especially in the demo niche.
Players preferred to test new slots without attachments to pass the time in isolation.
Strong trend for low-stakes slot machines.

Western Australia (WA)

The pandemic has hardly changed habits as dramatically as in the eastern states.
Online slots have become more in demand, but ground clubs have quickly regained ground.
Preferences have shifted towards classic video slots.

Tasmania (TAS)

Players more actively went online due to the limited number of offline halls.
Slots with bonus features and multipliers have gained popularity.
A feature of the region is the growing interest in localized platforms.

Northern Territory (NT)

Tourism, seriously affected by the pandemic, has reduced the flow of players to offline lounges.
Online slots have become an alternative, with mobile versions particularly popular.
Emphasis on simple, fast slots without complex mechanics.

Australian Capital Territory (ACT)

Due to its limited gaming infrastructure, ACT quickly moved online.
The popularity of social casinos has grown in the student environment.
Slots with competitive elements were preferred.

Overall trends across Australia

The growth of online gambling: the pandemic has accelerated the digitalization of the industry.
The popularity of mobile solutions: the transition of players to smartphones has intensified.
Changing preferences: Amid the lockdown, Australians were more likely to opt for progressive jackpots, live slots and high-engagement games.
Regional differences: Eastern states showed a sharper increase in online play, while in WA and SA the bias was less pronounced.

Conclusion

COVID-19 has not only changed players' short-term habits, but also cemented long-term trends. Online slots have ceased to be additional entertainment and have become the main gambling channel for many regions. At the same time, each state has retained its own characteristics: from the desire for jackpots in Victoria to interest in social casinos in the ACT.