Gaming in Nova Scotia

In 2007, 87% of adults in Nova Scotia reported gambling at least once over the last year. Of these individuals, 93% gambled with no problems (i.e. no risk). (1)

Nova Scotia has among the lowest problem gambling rate in Canada. (1)

Based on the Canadian Problem Gambling Index, 0.9% of the adult population (about 7,000) in Nova Scotia have a gambling problem or are defined as a problem gambler. An additional 1.6% (about 12,000) are considered at moderate risk of experiencing a problem with gambling. (1)

3.6% of the adult population are defined in the at-risk or low risk category. (1)

On average, adults in Nova Scotia spend a total of $609 annually on gambling. (1)

95% of gambling revenues in the province are generated from those who gamble at least once a month. (1)

Gaming Revenues

  • In 2010-11, $141.6 million in general revenue was provided to government for its programs and services.
  • In 2010-11, $39.8 million was earned by video and ticket lottery retailers in commissions.
Financial Results ($ millions):  2010 - 11 Actual
Corporate  
Revenue $439.4
Net Income $126.5
Win Tax $ 15.1
Contribution to Province $141.6
Casinos  
Revenue $ 83.3
Contribution $ 26.7
Ticket Lottery  
Revenue $ 216.1
Net Income $ 40.0
Video Lottery  
Revenue $ 140.0
Net Income $ 89.7
Gaming Stats  
# Casinos 2
# VLTs (excluding First Nations) 2,234
# VLTs First Nations 579
# VL retailers 345
# TL retailers 1,097
# Slot machines 600 Halifax
298 Sydney
# Tables 32 Halifax
11 Sydney
Average Prize Payout Percentage
Video Lottery 92-95%
Ticket Lottery 47-72%
Casino Slots 92%
Casino Tables 81%

(1) 2007 Nova Scotia Gambling Prevalence Study