Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Online pokies and casino games should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While gaming can be fun and exciting, it's important to remember that the house always has a mathematical advantage, and losing is a real possibility every time you play.
Please gamble responsibly and within your means. Set a budget you can afford to lose and stick to it.
Age Verification
Gaming sites operating in Australia are required to verify that all users are at least 18 years of age or the legal gambling age in their jurisdiction. If you are under 18, you are not permitted to gamble or access gaming services.
By accessing gaming platforms, you confirm that you are of legal age to gamble in Australia.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. If you recognize any of the following warning signs in yourself or someone you know, it may be time to seek help:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money you've lost
- Hiding your gambling activity from friends, family, or partners
- Gambling with money needed for essential expenses like rent, bills, or groceries
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when trying to reduce or stop gambling
- Needing to gamble with larger amounts to feel the same excitement
- Lying about how much time or money you've spent gambling
- Neglecting work, school, or personal relationships due to gambling
- Borrowing money or getting into debt to fund gambling
- Unsuccessful attempts to cut back or control your gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
If you experience any of these signs, please reach out for support immediately.
Self-Help Tools and Safer Gambling Features
Most reputable gaming platforms offer tools to help you maintain control over your gambling:
- Deposit Limits: Set a daily, weekly, or monthly limit on how much you can deposit. Once reached, you cannot deposit more until the period resets.
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose over a specific timeframe.
- Session Time Limits: Set an automatic logout time to help you manage how long you play.
- Reality Checks: Enable pop-up reminders during gaming sessions to help you stay aware of time and money spent.
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing gaming platforms. This is one of the most effective tools for problem gamblers.
Make use of these features. They are designed to protect you and support responsible gaming habits.
Support Organisations and Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available and free in Australia:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Provides free, confidential counselling and support services for problem gambling. Available 24/7.
International Support
- GamCare (United Kingdom)
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
Free support and counselling for those affected by problem gambling. - GamStop (United Kingdom)
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling. - Responsible Gambling Council (Canada)
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
Evidence-based research and resources for problem gambling prevention. - National Council on Problem Gambling (United States)
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
Confidential helpline and resources for problem gambling support.
If You Need Help, Reach Out Today
Problem gambling is treatable, and recovery is possible. You don't have to face it alone. If you are experiencing problems with gambling, or if someone you care about is, please contact a support organisation immediately:
Contact Gambling Help Online at www.gamblinghelponline.org.au — free, confidential support available 24/7.
Remember: gambling should always be fun. If it's no longer fun, it's time to get help.