HUNDREDS of NSW clubs will be banned from giving cash prizes in late-night raffles after the minister responsible for gaming said they might be illegal.

The Minister for Tourism and Hospitality, George Souris, said he would legislate if necessary to stop clubs raffling cash after 10pm after the Herald revealed that St Johns Park Bowling Club at Fairfield was handing out $100 notes in its gaming room from 2.30am in an apparent attempt to keep patrons at poker machines.

Cash prizes ... banned. Credit:Louise Kennerley

''I want them stopped beyond 10pm,'' Mr Souris said.

His criticism contrasts with the package of pro-clubs legislation the government has introduced since it took power. Mr Souris signalled more help for clubs and promised changes to the planning system to ensure big new housing estates earmarked prime-location land for future clubs.