Planning a fundraiser is tough. You’ve got to raise money, entertain a crowd, and keep it stress-free for your volunteers. Not easy.
That’s why casino nights are one of the most effective (and fun) ways to raise funds, if you do them right.
At Stay Entertained, we’ve helped schools, sports clubs, charities, and community groups across Brisbane and South East QLD raise thousands, without the stress.
Here’s how to run a casino night fundraiser that doesn’t just look good… but actually makes money.
Before you pick a venue or book tables, ask yourself:
- How much do we need to raise?
- How many guests are realistic?
- What’s the vibe: cocktail, casual, or full glam?
💡 Specific targets get specific results. “Raise money” isn’t a plan. “Raise $8,000 with 100 guests” is.
2. 🎟️ Sell the Right Tickets (and Add On-Site Extras)
You’ve got two income streams:
- Pre-sale tickets (with included fun money)
- Upsells on the night (more chips, drinks, raffles, auctions)
✅ Tips:
- Offer early bird pricing to drive momentum
- Create VIP packages with bonus chips or drink tokens
- Sell extra chips mid-event ($10 = 5,000 chips, etc.)
🧠 People don’t mind spending, when it feels like entertainment, not pressure.
3. 🃏 Let the Games Drive the Fun
Games should be inclusive, fast-paced, and addictive.
Our advice:
- Blackjack + Roulette are your MVPs
- Poker is optional and best for smaller VIP groups
- 1 table per 20 guests = best flow
We provide real dealers (not awkward hobbyists) and a Casino Pitboss to run the floor, making sure your Casino Fundraiser runs smooth, structured, and buzzing.
4. 🎰 Is Fun Casino Gambling Illegal in Australia?
Short answer: Fun casino nights are legal – as long as there are no real money wagers or prizes based on chips won.
Long answer:
Under Australian gambling laws (and especially in QLD under the OLGR), you’re allowed to host a “play-for-fun” casino night where:
- Chips can’t be redeemed for prizes or cash
- The event is strictly for entertainment
👉 As soon as chip counts determine who wins a prize or auction you’ve crossed into regulated gambling territory, which may require permits, or worse, break the law.💡 We’ve got a system that works and abides by the Australian Gambling Law’s. Contact our Event Specialist to talk more about how to make your fundraiser into a successful night.
5. 🔧 Don’t Try to DIY It
You’ve only got one night to make an impact. Cheap tables or bad dealers kill the vibe, and the profit.
Here’s what we bring:
- 🎰 Stunning LED casino tables (photo-worthy + immersive)
- 🃏 Trained, professional, fun and engaging casino dealers
- 🧠 A fully tested event system used at 1,000+ fundraising events
- 🎤 A Pitboss who runs the night, engages the crowd, and keeps the energy up
🙌 You focus on your cause. We’ll make sure your guests have the time of their lives and spend like it too.
🎉 Real Results from Brisbane Clients
✅ Local school P&C raised $7,800 in one night
✅ Football club hosted 120 people + bar sales + chips = $10K profit
✅ Gatsby Boat Party ticketed event charges $100 a Head and sells 300-500 Tickets each event
📣 Ready to Run a Fundraiser That Works?
We’ll help you:
- Plan the structure
- Choose the right setup
- Maximise income (without making it feel like a sales pitch)
