Free spins as a game feature
On most pokies, a free games or free spins round is triggered by landing a set number of scatter symbols. During the feature the reels spin without taking further bets, often with extras such as multipliers, additional wilds or symbols that stay in place. Some features can be retriggered.
The feature is part of the machine's design and its overall return. It is triggered at random; there is no way to make it happen sooner.
Free spins as a promotion
Online operators often advertise "free spins" to attract sign-ups. These are rarely free in practice. Winnings from promotional spins are usually paid as bonus money that must be wagered many times before it can be withdrawn, and may be capped.
Remember that online casino-style games cannot legally be offered to people in Australia, and Scamwatch warns that fake free-spin and bonus-credit offers are a common scam tactic.
Feature vs promotion
| In-game feature | Promotional offer | |
|---|---|---|
| Where | Built into the pokie | Offered by an online operator |
| Trigger | Random, usually scatter symbols | Sign-up, deposit or promotion |
| Winnings | Paid as normal credits | Often bonus money with wagering terms |
| Conditions | None beyond the game rules | Wagering, cashout caps, expiry, game limits |
Terms to check on any offer
For a detailed walkthrough, see how to read casino bonus terms. The short version:
- Wagering requirement on winnings
- Maximum cashout from bonus winnings
- Expiry date for the spins and the bonus
- Which games the spins apply to and the value per spin
- Identity verification needed before withdrawal