Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Online pokies and casino games should only be viewed as entertainment, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. The house always has a mathematical advantage, and the outcome of every game is determined by chance. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
In Australia, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online gambling and pokies. It is illegal for minors to gamble. If you are under 18, please do not use any gambling services. Parents and guardians are encouraged to discuss responsible gaming with young people and to monitor their online activities.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Be aware of these warning signs that may indicate problem gambling:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Hiding your gambling activities from family, friends, or partners
- Gambling with money intended for essential expenses (rent, bills, food)
- Neglecting work, study, or family responsibilities due to gambling
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Increasing the amount of money or time spent gambling
- Borrowing money to gamble or pay gambling debts
- Attempting to gamble in secret or lying about gambling activities
- Feeling a loss of control over your gambling
If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone else, seeking help is important and encouraged.
Self-Help Tools
Most responsible gambling platforms offer tools to help you stay in control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount of money you are willing to lose
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic notifications reminding you of your session duration and money spent
- Time Limits: Set session time limits to control how long you play
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling platforms
Use these tools proactively to maintain control of your gambling activities.
Support and Assistance
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Please contact one of these support organisations:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Free confidential counselling and support for problem gambling
International Support
- GamCare (United Kingdom)
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (United Kingdom)
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk - Responsible Gambling Council (Canada)
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org - National Council on Problem Gambling (United States)
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
Take Action Today
If you think you may have a gambling problem, please seek help immediately. Speaking to a counsellor, trusted friend, family member, or contacting one of the support organisations above can make a real difference. Recovery is possible, and support is available.
Remember: gambling should be a form of entertainment you can afford, not a solution to financial problems or a way to escape difficulties. Play responsibly and within your means.