Jackpot pokies: progressive and fixed jackpots explained

What are jackpot pokies?

Jackpot pokies are pokies that offer one or more prizes on top of normal line wins. The jackpot can be fixed, paying a set amount or multiple of the stake, or progressive, growing with every bet until someone wins it. Both types are common in Australian venues and online.

How are jackpots triggered?

Jackpots are triggered in one of three main ways:

1. A feature, such as hold and spin, where jackpot symbols land during respins. Lightning Link pokies and Dragon Link use this, with the top jackpot for filling every position.
2. A random jackpot wheel or bonus, which can start on any spin, as in Mega Moolah.
3. A symbol combination, such as five top symbols on a line at maximum bet, in some older games.

The game rules explain which applies, and whether your stake affects your eligibility or chances.

What do jackpots do to a pokie's return?

Jackpots change how a pokie's return is split. On a progressive game, a share of every bet goes into the jackpot pool, so less is available for normal wins. A game can show a similar total RTP to a non-jackpot pokie while returning noticeably less during normal play, because a large part of its return goes to one rare winner.

Fixed jackpots are paid from the game's normal maths and are included in its published RTP like other wins. Our guide to best payout pokies explains how to compare returns, and how pokies work covers RTP in depth.

How does a jackpot contribution work, in a simple example?

Here is a simplified illustration, not taken from any specific game. Imagine a pokie with a total RTP of 94%, where 3% of every bet goes to a progressive jackpot:

For a typical player who never wins the jackpot, the game behaves like a 91% pokie. The 3 cents per dollar only comes back to the rare player who hits it.

Smaller jackpot levels, such as Mini and Minor, are won often. Top levels, such as a Grand or Mega jackpot, are very rare: most players will never win one, however long they play. The size of a progressive jackpot does not change your odds; a larger meter only means it has gone longer without being won.

How should you budget for jackpot pokies?

Budget for jackpot pokies the way you would for a lottery ticket: a fixed amount you are prepared to lose, separate from your normal play. Keep to your usual stake, check whether the top jackpot needs a minimum bet, and stop when the budget is spent.

How do you keep jackpot play under control?

Jackpot meters are designed to keep you watching and playing. Set your budget and time before you start, never raise your stake to chase a jackpot, and walk away when you reach your limit. Gambling Help Online offers free, confidential support 24/7 on 1800 858 858.

Gambling is for adults only (18+).