Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Online pokies and casino games should be enjoyed purely as a form of entertainment, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While gaming can be fun and exciting, it's important to understand that the odds always favour the house. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose, and never view it as an investment or income source.
Age Verification
In Australia, you must be at least 18 years of age to participate in gambling activities, including online pokies and casino games. We take age verification seriously and encourage parents and guardians to help protect young people from gambling-related harms.
If you are under 18, please do not use gaming services. If you're aware of underage gambling, report it to the relevant authorities.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Be aware of these warning signs:
- Chasing losses: Trying to win back money you've lost by gambling more
- Loss of control: Gambling longer or with more money than intended
- Hiding gambling: Concealing the extent of your gambling from family or friends
- Neglecting responsibilities: Missing work, school, or social commitments due to gambling
- Financial problems: Borrowing money or using credit to fund gambling
- Mood changes: Becoming irritable or anxious when unable to gamble
- Escalating stakes: Needing to gamble with increasing amounts for excitement
- Unsuccessful attempts to stop: Repeatedly trying to reduce or quit without success
- Using gambling to escape: Gambling to relieve stress, anxiety, or depression
- Relationship strain: Arguments with loved ones about gambling habits
If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone else, seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools and Controls
Most reputable online gaming providers offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Restrict the maximum amount you're willing to lose during a session
- Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders of how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Session Time Limits: Automatically log out after a set period of time
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming platforms
- Account Closure: Close your account if you wish to stop gaming entirely
Use these tools proactively to maintain healthy gaming habits.
Support and Help Organizations
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. The following organisations provide free, confidential support:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online – Free counselling and support for problem gambling
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Phone: 1800 858 858 (free call)
International Organizations
- GamCare (United Kingdom) – Support for problem gambling
www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (United Kingdom) – National self-exclusion scheme
www.gamstop.co.uk - Responsible Gambling Council (Canada) – Education and resources
www.responsiblegambling.org - National Council on Problem Gambling (USA) – Help and resources
www.ncpgambling.org
All of these organisations offer free, confidential advice and treatment options. Reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
If You Need Help
Don't suffer in silence. If you believe you have a problem with gambling, or if someone close to you does, please reach out for help today. Recovery is possible, and support is available.
Contact Gambling Help Online on 1800 858 858 or visit www.gamblinghelponline.org.au for confidential support in Australia.
Remember: Gambling should be fun. If it stops being fun, it's time to seek help.