Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Entertainment, Not Income

Online pokies and casino games 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. Always gamble with money you can afford to lose and set strict limits before you play.

Age Verification

In Australia, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in gambling activities. This is a legal requirement to protect young people from the harms of gambling. If you are under 18, please do not access gaming sites or use this content.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

If you recognise any of the following signs, you may be developing a gambling problem. Please seek help immediately:

• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money you've lost
• Hiding gambling activities or lying about the amount of time or money spent
• Gambling with money needed for essential expenses (rent, bills, food)
• Being unable to stop or cut back on gambling despite wanting to
• Experiencing mood swings or irritability when not gambling
• Neglecting family, work, or social responsibilities due to gambling
• Borrowing money or getting into debt to fund gambling
• Gambling for longer periods than intended
• Feeling the need to gamble with increasing amounts to get the same excitement
• Using gambling to escape problems or negative emotions

Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features

Most reputable online gaming sites offer tools to help you maintain control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Set a limit on how much you're willing to lose in a session or timeframe
• Reality Checks: Receive popup reminders of how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
• Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from gaming sites for a period of time (days, weeks, or months)
• Session Time Limits: Set automatic timeouts after a certain period of play
• Account Closure: Permanently close your gaming account if needed

Use these tools proactively to protect yourself and maintain healthy gaming habits.

Support & Help Organizations

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, professional support is available. These organizations provide confidential, free assistance:

Australia (Primary Resources)

• Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au – Free counselling and support service for Australians affected by gambling
• Gamblers Anonymous Australia: Support groups and peer assistance across the country
• National Gambling Helpline (1800 858 858): Call for confidential advice and referrals

International Resources

• GamCare (UK): www.gamcare.org.uk
• GamStop (UK): www.gamstop.co.uk – National self-exclusion scheme
• National Council on Problem Gambling (USA): www.ncpgambling.org
• Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): www.responsiblegambling.org

If You Need Help

Problem gambling is treatable, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you are struggling with gambling, please reach out to one of the support services listed above. They offer confidential, non-judgmental assistance to help you regain control.

Remember: You don't have to face this alone. Help is available 24/7.