Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Entertainment

Online pokies should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While gaming can be fun and exciting, it's important to remember that the house always has an edge. Play only with money you can afford to lose, and never gamble to chase losses or escape personal difficulties.

Age Verification

You must be at least 18 years of age (or the legal gambling age in your state or territory) to participate in online gaming. It is illegal for minors to gamble. If you are under the legal age, please do not use gaming services.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Recognise these warning signs in yourself or others:

• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money you've lost
• Gambling with money intended for essential expenses (rent, bills, food)
• Hiding gambling activity or lying about the time and money spent
• Feeling restless or irritable when trying to cut back or stop
• Needing to gamble with increasing amounts to achieve the same excitement
• Failed attempts to control, cut back, or stop gambling
• Jeopardising relationships, employment, or education due to gambling
• Borrowing money or accumulating debt to fund gambling
• Gambling as a way to escape problems or negative emotions
• Friends or family expressing concern about your gambling habits

If you recognise any of these signs, help is available.

Self-Help Tools

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

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified period
• Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose in a session or timeframe
• Time-Out/Reality Checks: Take breaks with reminders of how long and how much you've spent
• Self-Exclusion: Exclude yourself from gaming platforms for a set period or permanently
• Account Restrictions: Reduce betting limits or disable certain gaming features

Use these tools to stay in control of your gaming habits. If you struggle to use them, seek professional support.

Support Organisations

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, these organisations provide free, confidential support:

Australia

• Gambling Help Online (National)
  Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
  Provides free counselling, self-assessment tools, and resources for all Australians.
• Gamblers Anonymous Australia
  Support meetings and peer assistance across Australia for those affected by gambling.

International Support

• GamCare (United Kingdom)
  Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
  Helpline: 0808 8020 133 (free, 24/7)
• GamStop (United Kingdom)
  Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
  National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling.
• National Council on Problem Gambling (United States)
  Website: www.ncpgambling.org
  National Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-522-4700 (free, confidential, 24/7)
• Responsible Gambling Council (Canada)
  Website: www.responsiblegambling.org

Need Help?

If you think you or someone close to you may have a gambling problem, please reach out today. Problem gambling is treatable, and support is available. Speaking to someone is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Contact Gambling Help Online now for free, confidential support.