Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
Online gaming and pokies should only ever be viewed as a form of entertainment, similar to going to the movies or playing sports. It should never be considered as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. The house always has an edge, and losses are a real possibility every time you play.
We encourage all players to gamble responsibly and within their means. If you find yourself struggling with your gambling habits, support is available.
Age Verification
In Australia, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online gambling and play pokies. This is a legal requirement.
If you are under the legal age, please do not use any gambling services. If you are aware of a minor gambling online, please report this to the relevant authorities.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Do you recognise any of the following warning signs in your own behaviour? If so, it may be time to seek help:
- Chasing losses: Continuing to gamble in an attempt to recover money you've lost
- Hiding gambling: Keeping your gambling activities secret from family, friends, or partners
- Loss of control: Gambling for longer periods or with larger amounts than intended
- Neglecting responsibilities: Prioritising gambling over work, study, or family obligations
- Financial strain: Borrowing money or going into debt to gamble
- Mood changes: Gambling to escape negative emotions, stress, or anxiety
- Tolerance: Needing to gamble with larger amounts to get the same level of excitement
- Failed attempts to cut back: Wanting to stop or reduce gambling but finding it difficult to do so
- Relationship problems: Gambling causing conflict with loved ones
- Withdrawal symptoms: Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
If you've identified with any of these warning signs, please reach out for support immediately.
Self-Help Tools and Features
Many online gaming platforms offer built-in tools to help you maintain control over your gambling. These include:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose before stopping play
- Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Session Time Limits: Automatically end your gaming session after a set period of time
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing gambling services
- Account Cooling-Off Period: Take a mandatory break from gambling before your account can be reactivated
We encourage you to make full use of these tools as part of your responsible gambling strategy. Remember, using these features is a sign of strength and self-awareness, not weakness.
Support Organisations
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, professional support is available. Below are organisations offering free, confidential assistance:
Australia
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Gambling Help Online
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Provides free counselling, self-assessment tools, and support resources for people affected by problem gambling.
United Kingdom
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GamCare
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
Offers free support, information, and counselling for problem gamblers and their families. -
GamStop
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
National self-exclusion scheme allowing you to self-exclude from all online gambling operators in the UK.
Canada
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Responsible Gambling Council
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
Provides information, education, and resources to promote responsible gambling practices.
United States
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National Council on Problem Gambling
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
Offers a national helpline and resources for individuals struggling with gambling addiction.
Germany
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Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA)
Provides information and support resources for problem gambling in Germany.
If You Need Help, Please Reach Out
Problem gambling is a serious issue, but it is treatable. If you are experiencing gambling-related difficulties, please don't hesitate to contact one of the support organisations listed above. They are staffed by trained professionals who understand what you're going through and can provide confidential assistance.
You are not alone, and help is available.
For immediate support in Australia, visit Gambling Help Online or call their helpline for confidential advice.