AFL clubs call for compensation for money lost due to pokies ban

AFL clubs want the league to pay them compensation to get out of pokies as nine Victorian clubs weigh up whether to buy the rights to run pokies for ­another 20 years.

AFL clubs want the league to pay them compensation to get out of pokies.

Nine Victorian clubs have been weighing up whether to buy the rights to run pokies for ­another 20 years, with a decision deadline in February.

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But AFL chairman Richard Goyder has said he “hates” pokies and wants clubs to wean themselves off.

Hawthorn, the club with the most lucrative pokies venues, said it would have to be paid to lose its machines.

The club confirmed that it intended to pay the required 5 per cent deposit to maintain access to its pokies rights.

AFL chairman Richard Goyder says he hates pokies. Picture: Stuart McEvoy

Carlton spokesman Luca Gonano said the Blues were considering whether to stick with the pokies. “We’re still working through it,” he said.

But he added that the club would seek compensation if the league told it to get out of pokies. “If it’s the AFL making the decision, then yes, compensation would need to be factored in,” he said.

Geelong also wanted compensation but said it intended to keep its pokies.

Collingwood, St Kilda and Melbourne will also sign up again, while the Western Bulldogs are yet to decide. Essendon declined to comment.

Richmond chief executive Brendon Gale. Picture: Luke Bowden

Richmond has become a gym operator, which chief executive Brendon Gale said would give the club “flexibility” in the future.

North Melbourne is the only Victorian AFL club without pokies and a reliance on gambling revenue.

Clubs will pay an average of $35,000 for each poker ­machine they run, a 71 per cent increase on the previous 10-year deal.

Minister for Gaming and Liquor Regulation Marlene Kairouz: “We support the AFL and its clubs in their efforts to reduce the exposure of their fans to gambling.” The AFL ­declined to comment.

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