Nestled right in the centre of Canberra at 16 Petrie Plaza, The City Labor Club stands as one of the capital's most accessible and popular venues for pokies enthusiasts. This modern establishment combines the classic Australian club atmosphere with contemporary gaming facilities, making it an ideal destination for both locals and visitors seeking quality entertainment in the nation's capital. The venue operates seven days a week with extended hours, ensuring that members and guests can enjoy their favourite gaming machines at their convenience throughout the week.
The City Labor Club forms part of the prestigious Canberra Labor Club Group, which owns and operates four licensed venues across the Australian Capital Territory. The club's strategic location on Petrie Plaza places it within easy walking distance of Canberra's major hotels, public transport hubs, and the city's vibrant dining and entertainment precinct. Whether you're a seasoned pokies player or someone looking to try their luck on the gaming floor, this venue offers a welcoming environment with professional service and a relaxed atmosphere that defines the Australian club experience.
For pokies enthusiasts, The City Labor Club delivers an exceptional gaming experience that rivals many larger establishments across the ACT. The venue houses approximately 61 gaming machines, each carefully selected to provide variety and entertainment value. According to industry reports, the machines at this location have demonstrated impressive performance, with each unit generating substantial revenue that reflects the quality of the gaming experience and player satisfaction. The gaming floor is thoughtfully laid out to ensure comfortable spacing between machines, allowing players to enjoy their sessions without feeling cramped.
The pokies selection at The City Labor Club includes a diverse range of popular titles from leading manufacturers such as Aristocrat and IGT. Players can find classic favourites like Where's the Gold, More Chilli, and 5 Dragons, alongside modern video slots featuring bonus rounds, free spins, and progressive jackpot opportunities. The betting denominations cater to all budgets, starting from as little as one cent per line, making the venue accessible to recreational players whilst also accommodating those who prefer higher stakes. The machines are regularly maintained and updated to ensure optimal performance and reliability.
Popular Pokies Available at The City Labor Club
Game Title | Features | Pay Lines | RTP | Provider |
Where's the Gold | Wild symbols, scatters, free spins | 25 | 97% | Aristocrat |
More Chilli | Wild symbols, scatter wins, and free spins feature | 25 | 97% | Aristocrat |
5 Dragons | Scatters, free spins | 243 | 95.86% | Aristocrat |
Ghostbusters | Free spins, bonus game | 30 | 98% | IGT |
Lightning Link | Bonus game, wild symbols, scatters, multiplier | 10 | 98% | Aristocrat |
The club maintains a strong commitment to responsible gaming through its Betsafe program, which was implemented by the Canberra Labor Club Group as the first licensed venue in the ACT to adopt this comprehensive patron care initiative. Staff members receive extensive training to identify and assist patrons who may be experiencing gambling-related difficulties, ensuring that the gaming environment remains safe and enjoyable for all visitors.
Feedback from regular patrons highlights several strengths of The City Labor Club's gaming facilities. Many players appreciate the venue's convenient central location, which makes it easily accessible via public transport or a short walk from most city hotels. The machine selection receives positive comments for its variety, with players noting that popular titles are generally available even during busy periods. The atmosphere is described as comfortable and unpretentious, lacking the sometimes overwhelming scale of larger casino operations, whilst still providing quality gaming entertainment.
On review platforms such as Tripadvisor, The City Labor Club holds a rating of 3.6 out of 5, with visitors commenting on the reasonable prices and friendly staff. One reviewer noted, "Not expensive, but enjoyable. The staff are very friendly. Played the pokies. Not the best place to spend an hour or two, but we enjoyed it." This sentiment reflects the club's position as a solid, reliable venue rather than a premium destination, which appeals to many regular club-goers seeking value and consistency.
Industry experts acknowledge The City Labor Club's significant contribution to the ACT's gaming landscape. Data from the ACT Gambling and Racing Commission shows that the venue performs well relative to its size, with its machines generating strong per-unit revenue. This performance indicates healthy player traffic and satisfaction levels. Gaming consultants note that the club benefits from its membership base and repeat visitation, creating a loyal community of regular players who appreciate the familiar environment and consistent service standards.
However, some reviewers mention that the venue's size means it can feel crowded during peak hours, particularly on Friday and Saturday evenings. The gaming area, whilst adequate, doesn't offer the extensive machine selection found at larger venues like the Belconnen Labor Club or major establishments in Dickson. For players seeking variety or specific new releases, this may occasionally be a limitation. Nevertheless, the club's management demonstrates responsiveness to member feedback, regularly reviewing their machine mix to ensure popular titles remain available.
Player Satisfaction Indicators
Aspect | Rating | Comments |
Machine Variety | 3.5/5 | Good selection of popular titles, though limited compared to larger venues |
Location | 4.5/5 | Excellent central Canberra position, easy access |
Staff Service | 4/5 | Friendly, helpful, and professional |
Atmosphere | 3.5/5 | Relaxed club environment, can be busy during peak hours |
Value for Money | 4/5 | Reasonable prices for food, drinks, and gaming |
Gaming experts recommend The City Labor Club, particularly for players who value convenience and a community atmosphere over sheer scale. The venue suits those who enjoy regular, shorter gaming sessions rather than extended marathon play. Its integration with the broader Canberra Labor Club Group means members can also access facilities at other venues, effectively expanding their options across the territory.
For visitors exploring pokies options in the Canberra city centre, several alternative venues operate within walking distance or a short drive from The City Labor Club. Understanding the local gaming landscape helps players make informed choices about where to enjoy their entertainment, as each venue offers distinct characteristics and atmospheres.
The Hellenic Club in the City, located at 13 Moore Street, stands as one of the closest alternatives. This well-established venue features a larger gaming floor with extensive machine selection and has built a strong reputation for quality dining facilities. The Hellenic Club operates daily with generous opening hours and provides members with comfortable lounges and modern amenities. Players often visit both The City Labor Club and the Hellenic Club, comparing the machine offerings and taking advantage of each venue's unique promotions.
Pokies Venues Near The City Labor Club
Venue Name | Address | Distance | Approximate Machines | Operating Hours |
Hellenic Club in the City | 13 Moore St, Canberra ACT 2601 | 700m | 80+ | Daily, extended hours |
Casino Canberra | 21 Binara St, Canberra ACT 2601 | 1.2km | No pokies (table games only) | 12 pm – 4 am daily |
Central Social Club | 202 City Walk, Canberra City, ACT 2601 | 350m | 60+ | Sun-Wed 10 am-10 pm, Thu 10 am-11 pm, Fri-Sat 10 am-12 am |
Civic Pub | 8 Lonsdale St, Braddon ACT | 1.5km | Limited selection | Daily until late |
Casino Canberra, whilst prominently located at 21 Binara Street, operates under unique licensing conditions that prohibit poker machines. Unlike other Australian casinos, it focuses exclusively on table games such as blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and poker. This makes Casino Canberra unsuitable for visitors specifically seeking pokies, though it serves as an excellent complement for those interested in traditional casino gaming alongside their club visits.
Central Social Club, another member of the Canberra Labor Club Group, sits at 202 City Walk and represents the group's flagship city venue. This modern establishment features contemporary design, quality food and beverage offerings, and a substantial gaming floor. Members holding Canberra Labor Club Group membership can access all four venues under a single membership, creating excellent value and variety. The Central Social Club particularly appeals to those seeking a more upmarket club experience whilst maintaining the welcoming character that defines Labor Club establishments.
Beyond the immediate city centre, Canberra's northern suburbs host several major pokies venues. The Belconnen Labor Club, located at 51 Chandler Street in Belconnen (approximately 7 kilometres from the city), operates as the largest venue in the Canberra Labor Club Group. With hundreds of machines, multiple dining options, and extensive entertainment facilities, it represents the premium end of the group's offerings. The Dickson Tradies Club, situated further north, famously houses around 400 gaming machines, making it one of the territory's largest pokies venues by machine count.
For visitors staying in the southern suburbs, options include venues such as the Tuggeranong Labor Club and various RSL clubs that dot the metropolitan area. Each suburb typically hosts at least one major club with gaming facilities, reflecting the strong club culture that characterises Australian Capital Territory social life. Most venues belong to broader club groups, allowing members to access multiple locations with a single membership.
According to data from pokiesnearme.net, Canberra supports over 3,500 authorised gaming machine positions across numerous venues, down from nearly 5,000 in 2018 as part of government harm-minimisation initiatives. This reduction has concentrated machines in established venues that demonstrate strong responsible gambling practices, benefiting clubs like The City Labor Club that maintain professional standards and support services.
The City Labor Club's position at 16 Petrie Plaza, Canberra ACT 2601, places it at the heart of the city's most accessible precinct. The venue sits one block east of Northbourne Avenue, Canberra's main north-south arterial road, and enjoys proximity to major public transport connections, parking facilities, and pedestrian thoroughfares. This central location makes reaching the club straightforward regardless of your starting point within the greater Canberra area.
For visitors arriving by car, numerous parking options surround the venue. The Canberra Theatre Centre car park, located beneath the theatre complex on Civic Square, provides covered parking within a three-minute walk of Petrie Plaza. Street parking along nearby roads offers time-limited spaces during business hours, transitioning to unrestricted parking in the evenings. The club's proximity to the city centre means most parking areas charge standard commercial rates, typically ranging from $3 to $5 per hour during peak times. Evening and weekend rates are generally more favourable, with some areas offering free parking after 6 pm on weekdays and throughout weekends.
Transport Options to The City Labor Club
Transport Method | Details | Approximate Cost | Travel Time from Common Points |
Bus from Civic Interchange | Multiple routes service the Petrie Plaza area | $2.50 - $5.00 (MyWay card) | 2-5 minutes walk from stops |
Light Rail from Gungahlin | Allight at Alinga Street station | $2.50 - $5.00 (MyWay card) | 7-minute walk from the station |
Taxi from Canberra Airport | Direct service | Approximately $45-$55 | 15-20 minutes |
Rideshare (Uber) from the Airport | Direct service | Approximately $35-$50 | 15-20 minutes |
Walking from City Hotels | Most city accommodation is within 10 minutes | Free | 5-15 minutes depending on the hotel |
Public transport users find The City Labor Club exceptionally convenient. The Civic Bus Interchange, Canberra's primary bus hub, sits approximately 400 metres west of Petrie Plaza, representing a comfortable five-minute walk. This interchange serves as the terminus and connection point for dozens of bus routes covering all areas of Canberra and Queanbeyan. Transport Canberra's MyWay card system provides discounted fares, with standard trips costing between $2.50 and $5.00 depending on zones travelled.
Canberra's light rail system, which connects the northern suburbs and Gungahlin to the city, terminates at Alinga Street station on Northbourne Avenue. From this station, visitors can walk approximately 700 metres east along Alinga Street and London Circuit to reach Petrie Plaza in about seven minutes. The light rail operates from early morning until late evening, with frequent services during peak hours. This connection makes The City Labor Club easily accessible for residents and visitors staying in Canberra's rapidly developing northern suburbs.
For interstate or international visitors arriving at Canberra Airport, the journey to The City Labor Club typically takes 15 to 20 minutes by taxi or rideshare service, covering approximately 8 kilometres. Airport shuttle services and public buses also connect the airport to the city centre, though these take longer due to multiple stops. The R3 Rapid bus route provides direct service between the airport and Civic, operating throughout the day at regular intervals. This economical option costs significantly less than taxi services, whilst adding only 10 to 15 minutes to the journey time.
Walking represents a pleasant option for those staying at city-centre hotels. Most accommodation along Northbourne Avenue, Constitution Avenue, and surrounding streets sits within a 10 to 15-minute walk of Petrie Plaza. The streets are well-lit, and the area maintains good pedestrian infrastructure with clear signage directing visitors to major landmarks. Canberra's wide streets and low traffic density compared to larger Australian cities make walking a safe and enjoyable way to explore the city centre, particularly during mild weather seasons.
Joining The City Labor Club provides access to a range of benefits across all four venues operated by the Canberra Labor Club Group. The membership structure offers flexibility to suit different needs and budgets, with options ranging from basic associate membership to full voting membership for those wishing to participate in club governance. One particularly attractive feature of membership is that a single fee grants access to all four venues: Canberra Labor Club (Belconnen), Central Social Club (City), The City Labor Club (Petrie Plaza), and Ginninderra Labor Club (Nicholls).
The membership categories and associated fees reflect the club's commitment to accessibility whilst maintaining the member-focused character that defines Australian club culture. Associate membership, designed for those primarily interested in accessing facilities rather than voting rights, costs $5.50 for one year or $11.00 for three years. This represents exceptional value considering it provides entry to multiple venues with extensive facilities. Ordinary (voting) membership, which includes the right to participate in club decisions and elections, costs $11.00 per year plus a one-time $55 nomination fee, or $33.00 for three years plus the nomination fee.
Canberra Labor Club Group Membership Options
Membership Type | 1 Year Cost | 3 Year Cost | Benefits |
Associate | $5.50 | $11.00 | Access to all four venues, member pricing, and no voting rights |
Ordinary (Voting) | $11.00 + $55 nomination fee | $33.00 + $55 nomination fee | All associate benefits plus voting rights in club decisions |
Members enjoy numerous advantages beyond basic venue access. Member pricing applies to food and beverages across all dining outlets, typically representing savings of 10 to 20 per cent compared to guest prices. This discount alone can offset membership costs for regular visitors within just a few visits. The clubs frequently run member-exclusive promotions, including special gaming offers, birthday bonuses, and loyalty rewards that enhance the value proposition. Many regular pokies players find that member promotions and cashback offers significantly extend their entertainment budget.
The membership application process requires individuals to be over 18 years of age and provide standard identification and contact details. Applicants must declare whether they have previously been subject to disciplinary action by any club, been excluded from gambling facilities, or experienced gambling-related problems. This responsible approach aligns with the club's Betsafe program and commitment to creating a safe environment for all patrons. Processing typically occurs within several days, with members receiving their membership card either by mail or for collection at any venue.
Members also gain access to the club's What's On calendar, featuring regular events such as meat tray raffles, trivia nights, live entertainment, and special promotions throughout the year. The Tuesday Night Raffle offers free entry to members, with prizes including quality meat trays. The club's popular Chicken Schnitzel special provides members with $5 cashback when purchasing this menu item, demonstrating the tangible benefits of membership. During major sporting events, members enjoy priority access to the best viewing positions on the club's large-screen displays.
The reciprocal arrangements with other clubs extend members' options even further. Many Australian clubs maintain reciprocal rights agreements, allowing members to access partner venues across the country at member rates. Whilst specific arrangements vary, Canberra Labor Club Group members often find they can visit clubs in Sydney, Melbourne, and other capital cities with similar privileges, making membership valuable for those who travel frequently within Australia.
The City Labor Club combines gaming facilities with quality food, beverages, and entertainment options to create a well-rounded venue experience. The establishment's layout maximises comfort and accessibility, with distinct zones for different activities, allowing patrons to choose their preferred atmosphere. The main lounge provides comfortable seating for socialising, whilst the gaming area offers a focused environment for those concentrating on their pokies play. Covered outdoor areas extend the usable space, particularly appealing during Canberra's pleasant spring and autumn seasons.
Dining represents a significant component of The City Labor Club experience, though specific menu details for the Petrie Plaza location may differ from the group's larger Belconnen venue. The Canberra Labor Club Group operates several dining concepts across its venues, including the Selections Bistro format found at the main Belconnen club. These bistros typically serve from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm for lunch and 5:30 pm to 9:00 pm for dinner, seven days a week. Menu offerings encompass classic Australian pub fare, including schnitzels, steaks, fish and chips, burgers, and various salads. Portion sizes receive consistent praise from diners, with many commenting that meals provide excellent value for money.
Typical Facilities at City Labor Club
Facility | Description | Operating Hours |
Gaming Floor | Approximately 60 pokie machines | 10 am – 4 am daily (varies by day) |
Bar | Full beverage service, including beer, wine, spirits, and soft drinks | 10 am – late |
Lounge Areas | Comfortable seating for socialising and relaxing | During venue hours |
TAB Services | Betting facilities for racing and sports | Standard racing hours |
Large Screen TVs | Multiple displays for sporting events | During major events |
Outdoor Area | Covered outdoor seating | During venue hours, weather permitting |
The bar facilities stock a comprehensive range of beverages suited to Australian tastes. Draught beer selections typically include mainstream options such as Carlton, VB, Tooheys, and XXXX, alongside craft beer alternatives. The wine list covers Australian regions, with particular emphasis on cool-climate varieties from nearby NSW and Victorian vineyards. Cocktails, spirits, and extensive non-alcoholic options ensure all preferences are accommodated. Pricing aligns with standard club rates, generally representing better value than city pubs whilst maintaining quality standards.
Sports viewing capabilities feature prominently among The City Labor Club's attractions. Multiple large-screen televisions throughout the venue broadcast major sporting events, with particular emphasis on rugby league, AFL, cricket, and racing. The club's TAB facilities allow members and guests to place bets on racing and sporting events, creating an integrated entertainment experience. During significant events like State of Origin rugby league matches, the Melbourne Cup, or major AFL finals, the venue's atmosphere becomes particularly lively as supporters gather to watch and cheer together.
Free Wi-Fi access throughout the venue acknowledges contemporary expectations for connectivity. This service allows patrons to check racing form, sports statistics, or simply stay connected whilst enjoying their visit. The coverage extends across gaming areas, lounges, and dining spaces, ensuring reliable connectivity regardless of where visitors choose to settle. This amenity particularly benefits those using the club as a casual workspace during quieter periods, combining coffee and light refreshments with internet access.
The venue maintains high standards of cleanliness and presentation, with regular maintenance ensuring facilities remain in good condition. Restrooms are well-maintained and accessible, meeting modern standards for comfort and hygiene. Lighting throughout the venue balances the need for ambience in social areas with adequate visibility in gaming spaces and dining zones. Air conditioning ensures comfortable temperatures year-round, particularly important during Canberra's cold winters and warm summers.
Accessibility features accommodate patrons with mobility challenges, though the specific provisions at the Petrie Plaza location should be confirmed directly with the club. Most modern Australian clubs include ramps, accessible restrooms, and designated parking spaces as standard. Staff members receive training in assisting patrons with special needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy the facilities comfortably and safely.
The City Labor Club's Petrie Plaza location sits within Canberra's primary entertainment and cultural precinct, surrounded by attractions, dining options, shopping facilities, and accommodation. This concentration of amenities makes the venue an ideal stop within a broader city experience, whether for residents or visitors exploring the capital. Understanding the surrounding area helps visitors maximise their time in Canberra whilst enjoying the gaming and hospitality offerings at the club.
Immediately adjacent to Petrie Plaza, Canberra City Walk forms the heart of the city's pedestrianised shopping and dining area. This extensive open-air precinct hosts major retail chains, independent boutiques, numerous restaurants spanning international cuisines, and several other entertainment venues. The Canberra Centre, one of the ACT's largest shopping complexes, connects directly to City Walk and provides three levels of retail therapy with over 160 stores. For visitors combining pokies entertainment with shopping or dining, this proximity creates excellent convenience.
Notable Attractions Within Walking Distance
Attraction | Distance | Type | Highlights |
Canberra Theatre Centre | 300m | Performing arts | Theatre, concerts, cultural performances |
Canberra Museum and Gallery | 400m | Museum | Local history, Australian art, rotating exhibitions |
Australian National University | 1.5km | Educational landmark | Historic campus, art school, beautiful grounds |
Lake Burley Griffin | 1.2km | Natural attraction | Walking/cycling paths, scenic views, water activities |
Commonwealth Park | 1.5km | Park/Gardens | Floriade venue, picnic areas, recreational space |
Cultural attractions cluster within easy walking distance of The City Labor Club. The Canberra Theatre Centre, located practically next door at Civic Square, represents the territory's premier performing arts venue, hosting theatre productions, concerts, comedy shows, and other live entertainment. The Canberra Museum and Gallery, also adjacent to Civic Square, offers free entry to exhibitions showcasing local history, contemporary art, and rotating displays. These venues create opportunities to combine an afternoon or evening at the club with cultural experiences, appealing particularly to visitors seeking diverse entertainment options.
For accommodation, The City Labor Club sits within walking distance of numerous hotels and serviced apartments. The QT Canberra, Peppers Gallery Hotel, Novotel Canberra, and Crowne Plaza Canberra represent just a selection of the quality accommodation options within a 10-minute walk. This proximity makes the club an attractive option for hotel guests seeking evening entertainment without needing transport. Many interstate visitors staying in the city specifically choose accommodation near Petrie Plaza to access both the club and broader city attractions conveniently.
Dining options surrounding the club span every cuisine and budget category. Asian restaurants, Italian trattorias, modern Australian bistros, cafes, and fast-food outlets line City Walk and nearby streets. For those seeking alternatives to the club's own dining facilities, this variety ensures everyone can find suitable options. Many patrons combine dinner at a city restaurant with later-evening entertainment at the club, taking advantage of the area's concentration of hospitality venues.
Commonwealth Park and Lake Burley Griffin lie approximately 1.5 kilometres south of Petrie Plaza, offering scenic walking and cycling paths, picnic areas, and recreational spaces. During spring, Commonwealth Park hosts Floriade, Australia's largest flower festival, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors to see spectacular floral displays. The lake foreshore provides peaceful respite from the city's urban core whilst remaining easily accessible for those based near The City Labor Club.
The Australian War Memorial, whilst requiring a longer walk or short bus ride (approximately 2.5 kilometres northeast), stands as one of Australia's most significant cultural institutions. This world-renowned museum and shrine attracts over one million visitors annually and provides profound insights into Australia's military history. Many visitors to Canberra include the War Memorial in their itinerary alongside other activities such as gaming at city clubs.
For those interested in exploring beyond the immediate city centre, the National Gallery of Australia, Parliament House, National Museum of Australia, and numerous other national institutions sit within a short drive or bus trip. Canberra's compact size and excellent road network make reaching these attractions straightforward, with most located within 10 to 15 minutes of the city centre. This accessibility allows visitors to enjoy pokies entertainment at The City Labor Club whilst also experiencing the broader offerings that make Canberra a compelling destination.
The City Labor Club maintains generous operating hours designed to accommodate diverse schedules and preferences. According to available information, the venue typically opens seven days a week, with specific hours varying slightly depending on the day. The general pattern sees the club open from early morning through to the early hours of the following day, though exact times should be confirmed directly with the venue as they may adjust seasonally or for special events.
Most sources indicate operating hours of approximately 10:00 am to 4:00 am Monday through Sunday, though some variations appear in different references. The gaming floor generally operates during most of these hours, with some restrictions during the quietest early morning period. Bar service continues throughout operating hours, whilst food service from the bistro typically operates during set lunch (12:00 pm-2:00 pm) and dinner (5:30 pm-9:00 pm) periods. These meal service times align with the standard operating patterns across the Canberra Labor Club Group's venues.
Contact Details for The City Labor Club
Contact Method | Details |
Address | 16 Petrie Plaza, Canberra ACT 2601, Australia |
Phone | (02) 6230 0404 |
Website | www.laborclub.com.au |
Contact through the website form or the main administration | |
Main Group Phone | (02) 6251 5522 (Belconnen venue - main office) |
Email (Group) | admin@laborclub.com.au |
For specific inquiries about gaming facilities, membership, bookings, or other matters, the venue can be contacted by telephone at (02) 6230 0404. This direct line connects callers with staff who can provide current information about operating hours, upcoming events, membership applications, and general questions. Alternatively, visitors can contact the Canberra Labor Club Group's main administration office at the Belconnen venue on (02) 6251 5522 or via email at admin@laborclub.com.au. The group's website, www.laborclub.com.au, provides comprehensive information about all four venues, membership options, upcoming events, and dining menus.
The club's location on Petrie Plaza makes it easily identifiable for first-time visitors. The venue occupies a prominent position along the plaza's eastern side, with clear signage visible from the main pedestrian thoroughfares. For those using GPS navigation or mapping applications, entering "16 Petrie Plaza, Canberra" or "City Labor Club" provides accurate directions. The postcode 2601 specifically identifies Canberra City, ensuring navigation systems direct users to the correct location rather than suburban venues.
During public holidays, operating hours may vary from standard schedules. The club typically remains open on most public holidays, recognising that these days often see increased leisure activity and socialising. However, specific hours and service availability should be confirmed in advance for major holidays such as Christmas Day, Good Friday, or Anzac Day, when regulatory restrictions or operational decisions may affect normal patterns. The club's website and social media channels provide updates about any temporary changes to hours or services.
Special events occasionally alter normal operations, particularly during major sporting events, community celebrations, or club functions. When significant events occur, the venue may extend hours, offer special promotions, or designate certain areas for specific purposes. Members and regular visitors often receive advance notice of these events through email newsletters, the club's mobile application, or announcements on the website. This communication ensures patrons can plan their visits to take advantage of special offerings or avoid particularly busy periods if they prefer quieter experiences.
The City Labor Club houses approximately 61 electronic gaming machines (pokies), providing a solid selection for a city-centre venue. Whilst this number is smaller than major suburban clubs like Belconnen or Dickson Tradies, it represents sufficient variety for most players. The machines include popular titles from leading manufacturers such as Aristocrat and IGT, covering classic favourites and modern video slots. Bet denominations range from one cent to higher limits, accommodating various playing styles and budgets. The gaming floor layout ensures comfortable spacing between machines, and regular maintenance keeps equipment in optimal working condition.
Membership at The City Labor Club costs $5.50 for one year or $11.00 for three years (associate membership without voting rights). For those wanting voting privileges, ordinary membership costs $11.00 per year plus a $55 one-time nomination fee, or $33.00 for three years plus the nomination fee. A single membership provides access to all four Canberra Labor Club Group venues: Belconnen, Central Social Club, City Labor Club, and Ginninderra. Members enjoy discounted pricing on food and beverages (typically 10-20% savings), exclusive promotions, special gaming offers, birthday bonuses, and priority access during major events. The membership pays for itself quickly through member pricing and special offers, particularly for regular visitors.
Yes, non-members can visit The City Labour Club as guests, though some restrictions apply. Guests must be signed in by a member or can purchase a temporary guest pass at the door. Guest pricing applies to food and beverages, which are slightly higher than member rates. Gaming machines are available to both members and guests without distinction, ensuring everyone can enjoy the pokies entertainment. However, becoming a member provides better value for regular visitors due to the modest membership fees and substantial benefits. Many visitors choose to join after their first visit upon realising the excellent value proposition membership offers across all four group venues.
The City Labour Club offers bistro-style dining with classic Australian pub fare. The menu typically includes schnitzels (the chicken schnitzel receives particular praise from members), steaks, fish and chips, burgers, salads, and daily specials. Meal service operates during set hours, generally 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm for lunch and 5:30 pm to 9:00 pm for dinner, seven days a week. Portion sizes are generous, and pricing represents excellent value, particularly for members who receive discounted rates. The bar serves a full range of beverages, including draught beer (Carlton, VB, and others), wine, spirits, cocktails, and non-alcoholic options. Coffee and light refreshments are typically available throughout operating hours. Special meal promotions run regularly, such as the popular $5 cashback offer on chicken schnitzel for members using the club's mobile app.
The City Labor Club enjoys an exceptional location for accessibility. It sits within walking distance (5-15 minutes) of most Canberra city hotels, including QT Canberra, Novotel, Peppers Gallery Hotel, and Crowne Plaza. The Civic Bus Interchange, Canberra's main public transport hub, is 400 metres away (a 5-minute walk), providing connections to all suburbs via dozens of bus routes. The light rail station at Alinga Street lies approximately 700 metres away (7-minute walk), serving the northern suburbs and the Gungahlin area. Multiple parking options surround the venue, including the Canberra Theatre car park and street parking. From Canberra Airport, the journey takes 15-20 minutes by taxi/rideshare (approximately $40-$50) or via the R3 Rapid bus service at a lower cost. This central position makes The City Labor Club one of the most accessible gaming venues in the ACT.
The City Labour Club typically operates seven days a week from approximately 10:00 am to 4:00 am, though specific hours may vary slightly by day and should be confirmed directly with the venue. Gaming machines are available during most operating hours, with the bar open throughout the day and evening. Bistro meal service runs during set lunch (12:00 pm-2:00 pm) and dinner (5:30 pm-9:00 pm) periods. Hours may extend during special events or major sporting broadcasts. Public holidays may see variations to standard hours, and the club occasionally adjusts schedules seasonally. For the most current operating times, contact the club directly on (02) 6230 0404 or check the Canberra Labour Club Group website at www.laborclub.com.au. The venue's extended hours make it suitable for both daytime and evening visits, accommodating various schedules and preferences.
Yes, the City Labour Club maintains a strong commitment to responsible gambling through the Betsafe program. The Canberra Labour Club Group was the first licensed venue in the ACT to implement this comprehensive patron care initiative in 2000. Staff receive extensive training to identify and assist patrons who may be experiencing gambling-related difficulties. The club provides confidential counselling referrals and professional support services. Betsafe operates a 24-hour free counselling service available at 1800 238 7233 (1800 BETSAFE). The membership application process includes questions about gambling history and previous exclusions, reflecting the club's proactive approach to problem gambling prevention. Various self-help materials, information brochures, and support service contacts are displayed prominently throughout the venue. Gaming staff are trained as Gambling Contact Officers who can intervene supportively when concerns arise. This responsible approach ensures The City Labour Club maintains a safe, enjoyable environment for all patrons.
