House Edge in Australian Casinos

Blackjack

Blackjack is a ripper game when it comes to low house edge – sitting around 0.5% if you’re sticking to basic strategy. In Aussie casinos, the edge is one of the lowest, especially if you’re making sharp choices like following a strategy chart for when to hit, stand, or double down. Variations like Aussie Blackjack or live dealer games can shift this slightly, but it’s a solid choice if you’re keen on odds in your favour. Advanced players sometimes try their hand at card counting, but keep in mind it’s only useful in low-deck games, and casinos are usually on the lookout.

Roulette

The house edge in roulette changes based on the wheel type, making it a popular pick among Aussies who enjoy strategic bets. European and French Roulette – both with a single zero – offer a 2.7% edge, while American Roulette’s extra 00 slot pushes it to a steep 5.26%. To keep your odds looking decent, try sticking to outside bets like red/black or odd/even; they give you a fairer shot without drastically increasing the house’s cut.

Baccarat

Baccarat is a classic, low-edge game that’s hugely popular in Aussie casinos. The house edge sits at a neat 1.06% on Banker bets, making it a solid choice for those looking to go the distance. But watch out for the Tie bet – while it offers high payouts, it comes with a house edge of over 14%, which can chew through your bankroll if you’re not careful. Best stick to Banker for the safest punt.

Pokies (Slots)

Aussie pokies are legendary, but the house edge can range from 2% up to a massive 15%, depending on the game’s RTP. To give yourself a fighting chance, aim for pokies with an RTP above 95% – these have a lower house edge, meaning better returns over time. Always check the game’s RTP stats before getting stuck in, especially on the big progressive jackpot machines, which can have a higher edge.

Craps

Craps might seem a bit more complicated, but it can be a goldmine of low-edge bets. Stick to Pass/Don’t Pass bets for a house edge around 1.4%, which is decent for new players. Craps also offers odds bets that are nearly zero in house edge, so they’re worth adding to your arsenal. Be cautious with high-risk prop bets, though; these can have house edges as high as 16.65%.

Keno

Keno is a true blue favourite but has one of the highest house edges, sometimes up to a whopping 40%. To keep it friendly, try betting on fewer numbers, as this tends to give slightly better odds. And remember – keeping your bets low can make the game more sustainable over time.

Video Poker

For those who like to mix skill and luck, video poker is a top pick, with a house edge as low as 0.5% on variants like Jacks or Better. Stick to the optimal strategy for your chosen game and avoid any side bets that typically raise the edge. Video poker is great for players wanting a game where smart play can truly make a difference.