Australian Poker Championship: How to Participate

ByDesmond

Introduction

Poker is more than just a card game in Australia—it’s a cultural touchstone, a high-energy competition, and for some, a career path. Every year, one tournament stands out as the crown jewel of Australian poker: the Australian Poker Championship (often referred to as the Aussie Millions).

Whether you’re an ambitious amateur or a seasoned grinder, participating in this tournament is a dream worth pursuing. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know: from the history of the championship, the buy-in process, qualifying events, and legal requirements to tips for maximizing your chances at the felt.

1. The History of the Australian Poker Championship

The Australian Poker Championship first gained major international recognition in the late 1990s, hosted at the Crown Casino in Melbourne. Over the years, it’s attracted some of the world’s best players—think Phil Ivey, Daniel Negreanu, and Joe Hachem (Australia’s own WSOP Main Event champion).

Today, it’s not just a tournament; it’s a festival, featuring multiple events across No-Limit Hold’em, Pot-Limit Omaha, and other variants.

Key Facts:

  • First held: 1998

  • Location: Crown Casino, Melbourne, Victoria

  • Main Event buy-in: Typically AUD $10,600

  • Notable winners: Gus Hansen, Lee Nelson, Toby Lewis

2. Why the Championship Matters in the Australian Casino Market

In Australia’s gambling industry—valued in the billions—poker has a special niche. While pokies (slot machines) dominate in sheer volume, the poker scene holds a prestige that attracts global attention. The Australian Poker Championship:

  • Boosts tourism (drawing players from the US, UK, Asia, and beyond)

  • Provides significant TV and online streaming exposure

  • Strengthens Australia’s reputation as a world-class casino destination

3. Eligibility and Legal Requirements

Before you buy in, you need to understand Australia’s gambling laws.

Legal Age:

  • 18 years old and above (strict ID checks at the casino)

Residency:

  • Open to both Australian residents and international players

Taxation:

  • Generally, poker winnings are not taxed for recreational players in Australia. However, professional players may be subject to different considerations.

Responsible Gambling Policies:

  • Crown Casino and other venues enforce responsible gambling guidelines. You may be refused entry if you’re on any self-exclusion list.

4. Ways to Enter the Championship

There are several paths to participation:

A. Direct Buy-In

  • Pay the AUD $10,600 entry fee for the Main Event.

  • Register in person at Crown Casino or online through their official portal (when available).

B. Satellite Tournaments

Satellites are smaller tournaments where you win your seat into the Main Event for a fraction of the price. These run:

  • In-person at Crown Casino throughout the year

  • Online via partnered poker platforms

  • At partner casinos across Australia

Example: Win a $10,600 Main Event seat from a $150 satellite.

C. Package Deals

Travel agencies and online poker sites often offer packages including:

  • Main Event entry

  • Hotel accommodation

  • Travel vouchers

5. Tournament Structure

The Australian Poker Championship isn’t just one event—it’s a series.

Main Event:

  • Buy-in: AUD $10,600

  • Starting stack: Typically 30,000 chips

  • Blind levels: 60-90 minutes

  • Format: No-Limit Texas Hold’em

Side Events:

  • Pot-Limit Omaha

  • Turbo and Deepstack tournaments

  • High Roller and Super High Roller events

6. Tips for First-Time Participants

Playing in a championship setting can be intimidating, so preparation is key.

A. Study the Game

Brush up on:

  • Tournament poker strategy

  • Reading opponents

  • Bankroll management

B. Arrive Early

  • Adjust to the time zone

  • Familiarise yourself with the casino layout

C. Practice Live Play

If you’re used to online poker, live games have different dynamics—from chip handling to physical tells.

D. Manage Your Bankroll

Even if you win big early, pace yourself across events.

7. Travel and Accommodation

Since the championship takes place at Crown Casino in Melbourne, here are some travel tips:

Airports:

  • Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) is ~25 minutes from Crown Casino.

Accommodation:

  • Crown Towers (luxury)

  • Crown Promenade (mid-range)

  • Budget hotels nearby in Southbank

Transport:

  • Tram and train networks are extensive in Melbourne.

  • Rideshare services like Uber are widely available.

8. Networking and Community

Poker is a social game. Take time to:

  • Attend player parties and networking events

  • Connect with local poker clubs

  • Follow the tournament’s official social media for announcements

9. Responsible Gambling Reminder

While the thrill is real, always:

  • Set a loss limit

  • Avoid chasing losses

  • Take breaks between sessions

Crown Casino offers free counselling services for anyone struggling with gambling behavior.

10. Conclusion

The Australian Poker Championship offers more than a shot at millions in prize money—it’s a chance to measure yourself against some of the greatest players in the world, experience Melbourne’s vibrant culture, and be part of poker history.

Whether you buy in directly, qualify through a satellite, or join as part of a package, the experience will be unforgettable if you prepare well, play responsibly, and savor every hand dealt.

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