Almost $90 million was put into the machines in 2008-09, but the community contribution claimed by the clubs is mostly being spent on operating costs and benefits for members.

The council adopted its revised EGM policy at a recent meeting.

"If you look at the amount of money going out of Knox to the amount going in, it doesn't correspond whatsoever," Cr Adam Gill said. "We're not getting our fair share."

There are 855 machines at 11 venues in Knox. Victorian Commission for Gaming Regulation figures for 2008-09 show that the venues had net revenue of $19 million.

They gave about $40,000 in donations or assistance to the community but claimed more than $6 million in operating costs.

The $90 million spent on gaming machines includes $15 million at the Stamford Hotel in Rowville and $13 million at the Bayswater Hotel.

There are an estimated 1500 problem gamblers in Knox and a similar number at risk of becoming problem gamblers.

The council's policy states it does not advocate a ban on electronic gaming, but recognises electronic gaming can pose a threat to public health and endorses disincentives for clubs and hotels to have EGMs.

Knox mayor Sue McMillan said increased rates for gaming operators was an option, but the council had not yet discussed what other steps it was prepared to take.

David Curry of the Australian Leisure and Hospitality Group - which owns five venues in Knox - said the group did "nothing significant at a local community level" as it focused

its charitable donations to statewide organisations such as Legacy and the Starlight Foundation.

However, he said individual hotel managers were able to make small donations to community groups.