Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Online gaming and pokies should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. They are games of chance and should never be viewed as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. The house always has a mathematical advantage, and losses should be expected as part of the entertainment cost, just like any other recreational activity.
Please gamble responsibly and within your means. Set a budget you can afford to lose and stick to it.
Age Verification
In Australia, you must be 18 years of age or older to legally participate in online gaming and pokies. This is a legal requirement to protect young people from the risks associated with gambling.
If you are under 18, please do not access gaming services. Parents and guardians are encouraged to discuss responsible gaming with young people in their care.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Do you recognize any of the following warning signs? If so, problem gambling may be affecting you or someone you know:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to try to win back money you've lost
- Hiding your gambling activity or lying about how much you gamble
- Gambling with money intended for bills, rent, food, or other essential expenses
- Feeling the need to gamble with increasing amounts of money to get the same excitement
- Unsuccessful attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Neglecting family, work, education, or other important responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money to gamble or pay off gambling debts
- Experiencing mood changes (irritability, anxiety, depression) when not gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems or negative feelings
- Risking important relationships, jobs, or opportunities because of gambling
If you've noticed any of these signs, it's important to seek help as soon as possible.
Self-Help Tools & Limits
Most reputable online gaming platforms provide tools to help you gamble responsibly:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount of money you can deposit within a specific time period
- Loss Limits: Set a cap on how much you're willing to lose in a day, week, or month
- Reality Checks: Receive regular notifications during your gaming session to remind you how long you've been playing
- Session Limits: Set a maximum duration for your gaming sessions
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing gaming services
Use these tools proactively. They can significantly help you maintain control and prevent problem gambling.
Support & Help Organizations
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, confidential help and support are available:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au – Free counselling and support services for people affected by gambling problems
- Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14 (24/7 crisis support)
International Support
- GamCare (UK): www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (UK Self-Exclusion): www.gamstop.co.uk
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): www.responsiblegambling.org
- National Council on Problem Gambling (USA): www.ncpgambling.org
If You Need Help
Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you believe you have a problem with gambling, or if someone you care about does, please reach out to one of the support organizations listed above. They offer confidential, non-judgmental assistance.
Remember: problem gambling is treatable, and recovery is possible with the right support and resources.