AFL clubs involved in the gaming industry already reeling from the coronavirus fallout can expect a "double hit" with a loss of income from their poker machines.

Hawthorn, Carlton, Essendon, Richmond and St Kilda rely on their gaming venues for vital funds but this is set to take a major hit with patrons keeping away from crowded places.

AFL clubs that rely on revenue from poker machines may have to brace for a slump amid the coronavirus pandemic. Credit:Fairfax Media

Already facing the loss of millions of dollars because of the threat of a season without crowds, and with a potential league shut down a distinct possibility, pokie venues could suffer even more should they need to follow the lead of Crown casino in Melbourne's Southbank, which has deactivated one in every two poker machines because of social distancing measures.

The venue also announced on Monday that gamblers will not be allowed to sit side-by-side while playing table games.