Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Online pokies and casino games 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 approach it responsibly and understand the risks involved.
Remember: the house always has a mathematical advantage. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose, and never chase losses.
Age Verification
All players must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online gambling in Australia. It is illegal for anyone under 18 to gamble online.
If you are under 18, please do not proceed. If you are aware of a minor gambling online, please report it to the relevant authorities.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. If you recognise any of these warning signs, please seek help:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
- Hiding gambling activities or lying about how much you gamble
- Neglecting family, work, or other responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money or getting into debt to fund gambling
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or depressed when not gambling
- Needing to gamble with increasing amounts to feel the same excitement
- Failed attempts to cut down or stop gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems or difficult emotions
- Relationships suffering due to your gambling habits
Self-Help Tools
Most responsible gaming operators offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose in a given period
- Reality Checks: Receive reminders during gaming sessions about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Time-Out: Take a break from gambling for a set period (hours to weeks)
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily ban yourself from gambling for an extended period (weeks to years)
Use these tools proactively to stay in control of your gambling habits.
Support Organizations
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au – Free, confidential counselling and support service for Australians (1800 858 858)
- Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14 – General crisis support
United Kingdom
- GamCare: www.gamcare.org.uk – Free information, support and counselling
- GamStop: www.gamstop.co.uk – National self-exclusion scheme
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council: www.responsiblegambling.org – Education and support resources
United States
- National Council on Problem Gambling: www.ncpgambling.org – 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537)
Germany
- Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA): – Information and support for problem gambling
Need Help?
If you feel that your gambling is becoming a problem, or if you're worried about someone else's gambling, please seek professional help immediately. There is no shame in asking for support – trained counsellors are available to help you.
Contact Gambling Help Online on 1800 858 858 (Australia) or visit their website for confidential support.