Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Online pokies and casino games should only ever be viewed as a form of entertainment, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While playing can be enjoyable, it's important to approach gaming with realistic expectations and strict limits.
Remember: The house always has a mathematical advantage. Never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose.
Age Verification
In Australia, you must be at least 18 years of age to legally access online pokies and casino games. It is your responsibility to verify that you meet this legal requirement before registering or playing.
If you are under 18, please do not access gaming platforms. Parents and guardians are encouraged to monitor online activity.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Do any of these apply to you? If so, seek help immediately:
- Spending more time and money on gaming than intended
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Lying to friends or family about gambling habits
- Gambling to escape stress, anxiety, or other problems
- Neglecting work, study, family, or hobbies due to gaming
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Feeling unable to stop or control your gambling
- Experiencing mood swings or irritability when not gaming
- Gambling with larger amounts to achieve the same excitement
Self-Help Tools
Most online gaming platforms provide responsible gaming tools to help you stay in control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit in a specified time period (daily, weekly, monthly).
- Loss Limits: Cap the maximum amount you're willing to lose before stopping play.
- Reality Checks: Enable notifications during gaming sessions to remind you how long you've been playing.
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing gaming platforms. This is a powerful tool if you feel you're losing control.
- Take a Break: Step away from gaming for a cooling-off period to reassess your habits.
Always use these tools proactively. Don't wait until you have a serious problem.
Get Help – Australian Support Services
If you're struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available and confidential:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Free, confidential online counselling and self-help resources for Australians. - National Gambling Helpline: 1800 858 858
Free, confidential telephone support available 24/7. - Gambler's Anonymous: Support groups and peer assistance across Australia.
International Support (If Applicable)
- UK – GamCare: www.gamcare.org.uk
- UK – GamStop: www.gamstop.co.uk (National self-exclusion scheme)
- Canada – Responsible Gambling Council: www.responsiblegambling.org
- USA – National Council on Problem Gambling: www.ncpgambling.org
Take Action Today
If you believe you have a gambling problem, reach out for help right now. Speaking to a counsellor or support service is confidential, non-judgmental, and free.
Contact Gambling Help Online on 1800 858 858 or visit www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Your wellbeing is more important than any game. Support is available.