Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Online pokies and casino gaming should only be viewed as a form of entertainment, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While gaming can be enjoyable, it's important to understand that the odds always favour the house. Please gamble responsibly and within your means.
Age Verification
In Australia, you must be 18 years of age or older to gamble online. It is illegal for minors to participate in gaming activities. If you are under 18, please do not use gaming services.
Parents and guardians: If you have concerns about a young person's gaming habits, please seek support from relevant authorities or counselling services.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you experience any of the following, you may be developing a problem with gambling:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Gambling with money needed for essentials (rent, food, bills)
- Hiding your gambling activities from family or friends
- Gambling for longer periods than intended
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Needing to gamble with increasing amounts to achieve the same excitement
- Unable to cut back or stop gambling despite trying
- Neglecting work, study, relationships, or hobbies due to gambling
- Borrowing money to fund gambling activities
- Lying to others about the extent of your gambling
If you recognise these signs in yourself, it's important to seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools
Most reputable online gaming operators offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're prepared to lose before stopping play
- Time Limits: Set automatic reminders or session timeouts to limit how long you play
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic pop-up notifications reminding you how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming sites to prevent access to your account
Use these tools proactively to maintain healthy gaming habits.
Support Organisations
If you're struggling with problem gambling, confidential support is available from these trusted organisations:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online – Free confidential counselling and information
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
United Kingdom
- GamCare – Free gambling support and advice
www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop – National self-exclusion scheme
www.gamstop.co.uk
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council – Prevention and treatment resources
www.responsiblegambling.org
United States
- National Council on Problem Gambling – Information and referral services
www.ncpgambling.org
Germany
- Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) – German health education centre for gambling support
www.bzga.de
Need Help? Reach Out Today
Problem gambling can affect anyone, regardless of age, background, or financial status. If you're concerned about your gaming habits or those of someone you know, please don't hesitate to seek help. Support is confidential, free, and available 24/7.
Remember: Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. The sooner you reach out, the sooner you can take back control.
Contact Gambling Help Online (Australia) on www.gamblinghelponline.org.au for immediate support.