The Problem Gambling Foundation is hopeful increased spending on pokies and gambling machines is just a "blip".

Department of Internal Affairs figures show in the year ended September, spending on gambling machines at pubs and clubs increased by almost two percent to over 820-million-dollars.

In the same time period, the number of gaming machines available dropped by almost 400.

Problem Gambling Foundation spokesperson, Andree Froude said there's no apparent reason for the increase.

She siad spending on gambling has been going downwards since 2004.

"We certainly hope it's just a blip."