Jackpots
Progressive Jackpot Pokies Explained — How Jackpots Grow and What They Cost
How fixed and progressive jackpots differ, how a jackpot pool grows, and why a big prize does not improve your odds.
RollieBet96 Guide · 6 min read · Updated October 2026
Before you start
This is an educational guide to how pokie jackpots work. It is general information only, not legal advice. Providing online pokies to people in Australia is restricted under the Interactive Gambling Act 2001, so read our guide:
Are Online Pokies Legal in Australia?
What a Pokie Jackpot Is
A jackpot is the largest prize a pokie can pay. It is usually triggered by a special symbol combination, a bonus game or a random draw, and it pays far more than ordinary wins.
Jackpots are paid out of the game's overall design. A jackpot adds excitement, but it does not make the game more generous overall.
Key Point
A jackpot is extremely rare by design. The chance of winning one on any spin is very small, and no spin is ever "due" to hit it.
Fixed and Progressive Jackpots
| Type |
How it works |
| Fixed jackpot |
Pays a set prize, often a multiple of your bet, every time it is won |
| Standalone progressive |
A small part of each bet on one game is added to that game's own jackpot, which grows until someone wins it |
| Local or in-house progressive |
Several games or machines at one venue or site feed the same jackpot |
| Network (wide-area) progressive |
Many venues or sites contribute to one shared jackpot, so it can grow very large |
Some games also add jackpot tiers, for example mini, minor, major and grand, each with its own prize size and chance of being won.
How a Progressive Jackpot Grows
1
Every bet adds a small amount
A small percentage of each qualifying bet is placed into the jackpot pool.
2
The pool keeps growing
The displayed amount rises as more bets are placed, on one game or across a whole network.
3
One player wins it
When the jackpot triggers, the winner is paid the whole pool, subject to the game's rules.
4
The jackpot resets
The pool drops back to a starting amount and begins growing again.
Some jackpots are "must drop by" jackpots, which are guaranteed to be won before a set time or amount. Others have no fixed point at which they must pay.
Jackpots, RTP and Your Odds
Part of every jackpot game's RTP comes from the jackpot contribution. Because that share is tied up in a prize that is rarely won, the ordinary spins in a jackpot game often return less than in a similar game without a jackpot. Check the information screen for the stated RTP of the version you are playing.
- A big displayed amount does not raise your odds. A bigger jackpot is not "closer" to being won.
- Each spin is independent. A game that has not paid for a long time is no more likely to pay next.
- Eligibility can depend on your bet. Some games only allow the top jackpot at certain bet sizes. Read the rules before you play.
To learn how RTP is calculated and why it cannot predict a session, read How Does Pokies RTP Work?
What to Check Before Playing a Jackpot Game
- The jackpot type (fixed, progressive or network).
- How the jackpot is triggered, for example a symbol combination, a bonus wheel or a random draw.
- The stated RTP of the exact game version.
- Any minimum bet needed to qualify for the top prize.
- The volatility, using Slot Volatility vs RTP as a guide.
Keeping Jackpot Play Under Control
The size of a jackpot can encourage people to bet more than they planned. Decide your limits first and keep to them.
- Never raise your bet to chase a jackpot. Higher bets mean faster losses.
- Treat a jackpot as a bonus, not a plan. The chance of winning is very small.
- Stop when you reach your time or money limit.
If gambling is causing you or someone you know harm, call the national gambling helpline on 1800 858 858 or visit Gambling Help Online.
Jackpot Pokies FAQ
What is the difference between a fixed and a progressive jackpot?
A fixed jackpot always pays the same prize. A progressive jackpot grows as bets are placed and resets to a starting amount after it is won.
Is a jackpot more likely to hit when it is large?
No. Each spin is independent and the chance of triggering the jackpot does not rise as the displayed amount grows.
Do jackpot pokies have a lower RTP?
Often the ordinary spins return less than in a comparable game with no jackpot, because part of the RTP is reserved for the jackpot. Check the stated RTP for the exact version you are playing.
Do I need to bet the maximum to win the jackpot?
Only some games require it. The game rules state any minimum bet needed to qualify for the top prize.
Where can I get help if gambling is a problem?
Call the national gambling helpline on 1800 858 858 or visit
Gambling Help Online.
RollieBet96 Guide
Know the Odds Before You Chase a Jackpot
Explore our educational guides on slot mechanics, RTP, volatility and hit frequency. 18+ only.
Information may change. Check each game's own rules for exact details.
Gambling should always be entertainment
Set limits, take breaks, and never chase losses. If gambling is causing you harm, call the national gambling helpline on 1800 858 858 or visit Gambling Help Online.
This guide is general information only and is intended for readers aged 18 and over. It is not legal advice.