Online Poker Australia

If you’re in it for the long haul, managing your bankroll is the name of the game. Having a stash set aside means you can weather those bad runs without running dry.

Practical Tip: Keep tabs on your bankroll. If you’re going through a dry patch, think about dropping down in stakes until you’re back in the green. But if your stack’s building up nicely, maybe it’s time to up the ante and play for bigger wins.

Beginners:
Start with around 50 buy-ins at the level you’re playing. For example, if you’re playing $1 games, having $50 in the kitty will help you hang in there when the luck’s not on your side.
Experienced Players:
Once you’ve got a feel for the game, you might cut down to 30 buy-ins. It gives you a bit more room to take risks, but you’ll still have enough to back you up.
Advanced Players:
The seasoned pros often keep 100 buy-ins handy, especially at high stakes. This extra cushion lets them ride out bigger losses without breaking a sweat.

Where you’re sitting at the table makes a big difference in poker. Whether you’re going first or have the last say, position can completely shift your strategy.

Practical Tip: Late position is where you can really make moves. Up the stakes when it’s looking good and use your position to influence the table. It’s also a great spot for bluffing or betting big to push weaker hands out.

Early Position (EP):
If you’re up first, you’re at a bit of a disadvantage since you’re flying blind. Stick to strong hands and save the fancy moves for later.
Middle Position (MP):
You’ve got a little more info to work with, so feel free to bring out some mid-range hands, like suited connectors. Just don’t go too wild.
Late Position (LP):
This is where you’re calling the shots. Being last to act lets you watch everyone else, so loosen up and use your advantage to apply some pressure on the blinds and weaker hands.

Even when you’re playing online, there are plenty of clues in how people bet, raise, or fold. These little hints can make a big difference in working out whether they’re holding a strong hand or just putting on a show.

Practical Tip: Use note-taking tools in online poker rooms. Label your opponents based on their habits and jot down any key moves you see them making. Over time, you’ll have a handy guide on how they play, making it easier to stay one step ahead!

Spotting Betting Patterns:
Keep tabs on players who like to make big bets early on (like on the flop or turn) but seem to fold fast if someone challenges them. This can be a dead giveaway of cautious play or a weak attempt at bluffing.
Timing is Key:
Fast bets can scream confidence, or they might just be autopilot moves from someone playing loose. A pause, on the other hand, might signal hesitation, or they’re weighing up a bluff. Timing tells can be subtle but super handy.
Consistency Check:
Notice if a player bets heavy on the river every time—that could mean they’re bluff-happy, giving you the chance to call them down with something middling. Catching patterns like this adds a bit of edge to your play.

Being aggressive with the right hands can make opponents second-guess themselves, opening up chances for you to pounce on mistakes.

Practical Tip: Avoid reckless aggression. Only play hard when the situation and hand justify it. Blind aggression will empty your bankroll quicker than a dodgy hand.

Strong Hands:
Take your high-value hands—like big pairs or suited connectors—and play them hard early on to build the pot and cut down the competition.
Bluffs and Semi-Bluffs:
Every so often, mix in semi-bluffs (hands that could improve, like a flush or straight draw). This keeps opponents on their toes, uncertain about your hand.
Shift Gears:
Know when to switch from passive to aggressive play based on your hand and position. This unpredictability keeps opponents guessing.

Bluffing’s essential, but you’ve got to pick your spots. Bluff too much, and your opponents will wise up and start calling you.

Practical Tip: Small, well-timed bluffs are more effective than going all-in on a weak hand. Bluffs should be like spices in a recipe—used sparingly to enhance your play, not dominate it.

Know Your Audience:
Only bluff if you think your opponent might fold. Loose players who call frequently aren’t great targets.


Position & Timing:
Late position is the best for bluffing since you can see how the others act before deciding. Bluffing on the river often works best, especially if the board shows strong potential hands.
Balance with Value Bets:
Don’t overuse bluffs—mix in solid value bets to keep your opponents guessing whether you’re holding a strong hand or just putting on a show.