Social Clubs in Australia - Industry Market Research Report

Luck of the Draw: the Covid-19 Pandemic and Associated Restrictions Have Hindered Revenue

Regulatory constraints and fierce competition among gambling providers have hurt the Social Clubs industry. Tight state and territorial legislation has been detrimental to the industry's performance, with the industry deriving over 45.0% of its revenue from gambling. Declining per capita alcohol consumption has weighed on liquor sales. Changing consumer preferences and rising discretionary income have positively influenced premium food and beverage sales, partly offsetting these negative trends. The COVID-19 pandemic and periods of lockdowns and restrictions on business operations have significantly hindered social clubs. Industry-wide revenue has been declining at an estimated annualised 1.0% over the past five years and is expected to total $12.5 billion in 2022-23, when revenue will edge up by an anticipated 0.4%.

The industry includes gambling, sporting, recreational and social (such as RSL) clubs or associations that predominantly generate income from hospitality services. Clubs that mainly provide sporting services, including racing clubs, are not included in the industry. The industry covers both licensed and unlicensed clubs, and clubs with gambling licences.

This report covers the scope, size, disposition and growth of the industry including the key sensitivities and success factors. Also included are five year industry forecasts, growth rates and an analysis of the industry key players and their market shares.