Claiming a juicy bonus is always exciting. But if you don’t read the fine print, that excitement can turn into frustration fast. Most online casino bonuses come with strings attached—and those strings are called Terms & Conditions (T&Cs).
So, what exactly do you need to know before hitting that “Claim Bonus” button? Let’s break it down.
Wagering Requirements (aka Rollover)
Wagering requirements tell you how many times you need to bet the bonus (or bonus + deposit) before you can cash out. For example, a 30x wagering requirement on a $100 bonus means you’ll need to bet $3,000 before making a withdrawal.
Many Aussie players fall into the trap of thinking a bonus is free cash. It isn’t. Wagering is the catch—and it’s one you must play through to unlock any winnings.
Eligible Games and Game Contribution
Just because you’re playing doesn’t mean you’re progressing. Slots typically count 100% toward wagering. But table games like blackjack or roulette may count only 10% or even 0%.
Some pokies are also excluded entirely, especially those with high RTP or progressive jackpots. Always check the list of eligible games in the bonus terms.
Maximum Bet Limits
Most bonuses come with a cap on how much you can bet per spin or round while wagering is active. Common limits range between $5 to $10 per spin.
If you go over that, even by accident, the casino can void your entire bonus and any winnings. Harsh? Yes. But standard.
Bonus Expiry Timelines
All bonuses come with a deadline. You may have 7 days, 14 days, or sometimes up to 30 days to complete your wagering. Miss it? You lose everything.
It’s crucial to pace your play and plan ahead if you want to clear a bonus.
Sticky vs Non-Sticky Bonuses
This one’s sneaky:
- Sticky bonus: You can’t withdraw the bonus itself, only your winnings.
- Non-sticky (parachute bonus): You play your real money first. If you win, you can cash out without touching the bonus.
Non-sticky bonuses are always better for the player.
Progressive Jackpots & Megaways
Games like Megaways pokies and progressive slots can be thrilling, but they’re often excluded from wagering contributions. Check before spinning.
Some sites even restrict bonus use on titles with cascading reels, expanding wilds, or bonus rounds, especially if they boost your RTP.
Wagering on Bonus vs. Deposit + Bonus
Not all casinos use the same formula:
- 30x bonus ($100) = $3,000 in wagers
- 30x deposit + bonus ($100 + $100) = $6,000 in wagers
Always confirm which one applies before depositing.
Hit Frequency & Volatility Impact
Some T&Cs favour low volatility games because they keep your bankroll stable. Others lean toward high volatility pokies that may hit big—but less often.
Your bonus strategy should reflect this. Choosing the right volatility level can help you survive the grind of wagering.
Wagering Contribution by Feature
Did you know free spins, multipliers, or sticky wilds might be excluded from contributing to wagering? Casinos often restrict high-value bonus features to prevent abuse.
Even re-spins, bonus symbols, and scatter symbols can affect your eligibility. Don’t assume every feature helps you clear your bonus.
RNG, RTP and Fair Play
Make sure the casino uses certified Random Number Generators (RNG) and publishes accurate RTP (Return to Player) figures. If not, your bonus wagering may be based on unfair game mechanics.
At Roowins, we only recommend platforms with independent licensing and transparent RTP stats. You can check our list of reliable online pokies casinos.
Withdrawal Limits on Bonus Wins
Even if you win thousands, some bonuses cap the withdrawal amount. A free spins bonus might have a $100 max cashout. It’s a nasty surprise unless you read the fine print.
Country & Payment Restrictions
Australian players might face unique restrictions. Some bonuses may not be available for your region, or your payment method may disqualify you from claiming.
Always double-check the wagering requirements and T&Cs based on your country and chosen deposit method.
Final Tip: Don’t Chase Bonuses Blindly
A bonus with lower wagering (10x to 20x) and no withdrawal cap is always better than a flashy one with strings attached. We recommend reading the full bonus policy or using our latest reviews to find the fairest offers.
Explore More:
- What Is Slot Volatility? Low vs High Explained
- Fastest Ways to Withdraw Winnings in Australia
- How to Spot Reliable Online Pokies Sites
Conclusion: Online casino bonuses can be rewarding, but they’re far from “free”. By understanding the key T&Cs—especially those tied to wagering—you’ll play smarter and cash out more often. Know the rules, pick the right games, and stay one step ahead of the fine print.