Essendon remain committed to pursuing gaming revenues in the short and medium term, but have identified several alternative revenue streams which will eventually allow the club to reduce its reliance on gaming, when financially viable.

Speaking to The Age, Essendon CEO Xavier Campbell emphasised the financial importance of gaming assets to the Bombers’ finances, as well as the community role played by the club’s gaming venues, where 140 people are employed.

Xavier Campbell. Credit:Getty Images

“We need to realise that, yes, pokies are an element of these venues, but there’s much more to these venues than just gaming… there’s a range of community groups that use these venues… we have to be conscious of their broader impact,” said Campbell.

Campbell pointed to the strong governance model employed by the club in the operation of gaming venues, noting other operators may not ensure the same levels of oversight and community-mindedness.