Responsible Gaming

Gambling 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 remember that the house always has a mathematical advantage. Play only with money you can afford to lose, and set realistic expectations about your experience.

Age Verification

You must be at least 18 years of age (or the legal gambling age in your jurisdiction) to participate in online gaming and pokies. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet these legal requirements before playing. If you are under the legal age, please do not engage with gaming platforms.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, it may indicate a gambling problem:

• Chasing losses by gambling with more money to try to recover what was lost
• Hiding or lying about the amount of time or money spent on gambling
• Feeling anxious or irritable when trying to reduce or stop gambling
• Gambling with increasing amounts of money to achieve the desired excitement
• Neglecting work, study, family, or social obligations due to gambling
• Using gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
• Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling activities
• Failed attempts to cut back or control gambling habits
• Experiencing relationship problems or conflicts due to gambling

Self-Help Tools & Controls

Most reputable gaming platforms offer tools to help you maintain control of your gaming habits:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount of money you can deposit within a specified period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Restrict the amount of money you're willing to lose during a gaming session
• Time Limits: Set a maximum duration for your gaming sessions
• Reality Checks: Enable reminders that notify you of how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
• Self-Exclusion: Take a voluntary break from gaming for a set period or indefinitely

Use these tools proactively to maintain healthy gaming habits and stay in control of your experience.

Support & Help Resources

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. The following organisations provide confidential support and counselling:

Australia

• Gambling Help Online – Free, confidential counselling and support
  www.gamblinghelponline.org.au

United Kingdom

• GamCare – Free support and information on problem gambling
  www.gamcare.org.uk
• GamStop – National self-exclusion scheme
  www.gamstop.co.uk

Canada

• Responsible Gambling Council – Evidence-based resources and support
  www.responsiblegambling.org

United States

• National Council on Problem Gambling – Helpline: 1-800-522-4700
  www.ncpgambling.org

Take Action Today

If you're experiencing difficulties with gambling, please reach out for help. Speaking to a counsellor or support service is confidential and free. There is no shame in seeking assistance – problem gambling is a recognized condition, and recovery is possible with the right support.

If you need help now, contact Gambling Help Online at www.gamblinghelponline.org.au or call 1800 858 858 (free call in Australia).