Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Fun, Not a Financial Solution
Online pokies and casino games are designed for entertainment purposes only. They should never be viewed as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. The house always has a mathematical advantage, and losses are an expected part of gaming. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose, and treat any winnings as a bonus, not income.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to use online gambling services in Australia. If you are under 18, please do not proceed. It is illegal for minors to participate in gambling activities.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following in your own behaviour, you may be developing a gambling problem:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Gambling with money needed for essentials (rent, bills, food)
- Hiding your gambling activities from friends or family
- Losing track of time or money spent while gambling
- Gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
- Unable to stick to pre-set spending limits
- Borrowing money to gamble or pay gambling debts
- Neglecting work, study, or relationships due to gambling
- Feeling anxious or irritable when not gambling
- Constantly thinking about your next gambling session
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gambling Features
Most reputable online gambling operators offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a chosen timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose in a session or time period
- Reality Checks: Receive reminders about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Session Time Limits: Automatically close your account after a set period of play
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently block yourself from accessing gambling sites
- Account Cooling Off Period: Take a break from gambling for a specified duration
Use these tools proactively to protect yourself and maintain healthy gambling habits.
Support & Help Resources for Australia
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, professional help is available:
Gambling Help Online
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
A free, confidential counselling and referral service for people with concerns about their gambling or someone else's gambling.
Lifeline Australia
Phone: 13 11 14 (24/7)
Crisis support and suicide prevention service available to all Australians.
Beyond Blue
Phone: 1300 224 636
Website: www.beyondblue.org.au
Support for mental health, depression, anxiety, and problem gambling.
Gamblers Anonymous
Website: www.gamblersanonymous.org.au
Peer support meetings and fellowship for people struggling with problem gambling.
International Support Resources
United Kingdom
- GamCare: www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (Self-Exclusion Scheme): www.gamstop.co.uk
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council: www.responsiblegambling.org
United States
- National Council on Problem Gambling: www.ncpgambling.org
Germany
- Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA): Problem gambling support and information
If You Need Help, Please Reach Out
Problem gambling can affect anyone, regardless of age, background, or income. There is no shame in seeking help. If you or someone close to you is experiencing gambling-related difficulties, please contact one of the support organisations listed above today. Professional counsellors are available and ready to assist you confidentially.
Remember: Help is available, and recovery is possible.