Victorian hoteliers are holding off opening new pubs across the state until there’s certainty about the impact of proposed gaming legislation for pokies, designed to curb problem gambling and which is set to be trialled in the middle of this year, industry leaders say.

There are fears among pub owners who rely heavily on poker machines that a decline in their revenue if the legislation is enacted could lead to significant staff reductions and potential closures. Many pub operators are still getting back on their feet after Victoria’s lengthy COVID-19 shutdown.