Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
Online pokies and casino games should only be enjoyed as a form of entertainment, similar to going to the movies or playing sports. Gambling is never a reliable way to earn money or solve financial problems. The odds always favour the house, and you should only gamble with money you can afford to lose.
If you find yourself viewing gambling as a way to make money or recover losses, it may be time to reassess your relationship with gambling and seek support.
Age Verification
In Australia, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online gambling and pokies. This is a legal requirement designed to protect young people from the harms of problem gambling.
By using this website and accessing any gambling services, you confirm that you are of legal age in your jurisdiction.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following warning signs in your own behaviour, consider reaching out for professional support:
- Chasing losses — continuing to gamble to try to recover money you've lost
- Hiding your gambling activities or lying about how much you gamble
- Spending more time or money on gambling than you intended
- Gambling with money needed for essential expenses (rent, food, bills, medication)
- Experiencing mood swings or irritability when unable to gamble
- Neglecting work, study, family, or social relationships due to gambling
- Borrowing money to fund gambling activities
- Feeling anxious, depressed, or guilty about your gambling
- Unsuccessful attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Using gambling as a way to escape problems or negative emotions
Self-Help Tools & Control Features
Many online gambling providers offer tools to help you maintain control. Consider using these features:
- 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 willing to lose before you must stop gambling
- Reality Checks: Enable pop-up reminders during gambling sessions to help you stay aware of how long and how much you've been playing
- Time Limits: Set a maximum duration for your gambling sessions
- Self-Exclusion: Take a break from gambling by temporarily or permanently excluding yourself from gambling platforms
- Account Cooling-Off Period: Request a mandatory break before you can resume gambling
These tools are designed to help you gamble responsibly. Use them proactively, not reactively.
Support Organizations & Resources
If you or someone you care about is struggling with problem gambling, professional support is available. Here are organisations providing help:
Australia (Primary Resources)
- Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au — Free, confidential counselling and support for problem gambling in Australia. Phone: 1800 858 858
- Gambler's Help (Victoria): www.gamblershelp.com.au — Free counselling and support services
- Responsible Gambling Australia: Information and resources on responsible gaming practices
International Resources
- GamCare (UK): www.gamcare.org.uk — Support for problem gambling in the United Kingdom
- GamStop (UK): www.gamstop.co.uk — National self-exclusion scheme for the UK
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): www.responsiblegambling.org
- National Council on Problem Gambling (USA): www.ncpgambling.org — 1-800-522-4700
All of these organisations offer confidential support, whether you're concerned about your own gambling or that of someone close to you.
If You Need Help, Please Reach Out
Problem gambling is a recognised health issue, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. You are not alone, and support is available.
If you are experiencing difficulties with gambling, contact Gambling Help Online on 1800 858 858 today. Their counsellors are trained, confidential, and available to help.
Remember: Recovery is possible, and professional support can make a real difference.