Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
Online pokies and casino gaming should only ever be viewed as a form of entertainment. It is never a reliable way to earn money or solve financial problems. The odds are always in favour of the house, and you should only gamble with money you can afford to lose. Set strict limits and play responsibly.
Age Verification
Online gambling in Australia is only legal for persons aged 18 years and over. If you are under 18, you must not use gambling services. If you are aware of a minor gambling online, please report it to the relevant authorities.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are of legal age before participating in any gambling activity.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop quickly. If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, seek help immediately:
- Spending more money on gambling than you can afford to lose
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Hiding gambling activity from family, friends, or partners
- Gambling to escape stress, anxiety, depression, or other negative emotions
- Neglecting work, school, family, or other important responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money to gamble or pay gambling debts
- Experiencing anxiety, irritability, or anger when unable to gamble
- Feeling the need to gamble with increasing amounts of money
- Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Experiencing financial difficulties as a result of gambling
Self-Help Tools
Most responsible gaming operators provide tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount of money you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount of money you are willing to lose during a gaming session or timeframe
- Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders of how long you have been gaming and how much you have spent
- Session Limits: Set a maximum duration for each gaming session
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling platforms to take a break or stop entirely
Take advantage of these tools. They are designed to help you stay in control.
Support Organisations
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Please contact one of these organisations:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online — Free, confidential counselling and support
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Phone: 1800 858 858 (24/7, free call)
International Services (if applicable)
- 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
Remember: Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. These organisations are staffed by trained professionals who understand problem gambling and can provide confidential support.
If You Have a Problem, Seek Help Now
If you believe you have a problem with gambling, or if someone you care about does, please reach out for help today. The sooner you seek support, the sooner you can regain control.
Contact Gambling Help Online or call 1800 858 858 for free, confidential advice and counselling available 24/7.
Your wellbeing matters. Help is just a phone call away.