Responsible Gaming

Gambling Should Be Entertainment

Online pokies and casino games are designed for entertainment purposes only. Gambling should never be viewed as a way to earn money, pay bills, or solve financial problems. Play only with money you can afford to lose, and always set strict limits before you start.

Remember: the house always has a mathematical advantage. If you find yourself chasing losses or gambling more than intended, it's time to seek help.

Age Verification

You must be 18 years of age or older to participate in gambling activities in Australia. All legitimate online pokies sites require strict age verification before account creation and first deposit.

If you are under 18, or if you suspect someone underage is gambling, please contact the relevant authorities or support organisations listed below.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

If you recognise any of the following behaviours in yourself or someone you know, problem gambling may be developing:

• Gambling with money needed for essentials (rent, food, bills)
• Chasing losses by gambling more to win back money
• Hiding gambling activity from family or friends
• Lying about the amount of time or money spent gambling
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
• Needing to gamble with increasing amounts to feel excitement
• Neglecting work, study, hobbies, or relationships due to gambling
• Borrowing money to gamble or pay off gambling debts
• Thinking constantly about gambling or past losses
• Attempts to cut back or quit have been unsuccessful

Self-Help Tools & Controls

Most responsible gaming operators offer tools to help you maintain control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount of losses you're willing to accept before stopping play
• Reality Checks: Enable pop-up reminders during play sessions to track time and spending
• Time-Out/Cool-Off Periods: Temporarily suspend your account for a set period (days or weeks)
• Self-Exclusion: Permanently or temporarily close your account and request exclusion from the operator
• Budget Tracking: Monitor your gambling activity and spending history

Use these tools proactively. They are designed to support responsible play and help prevent problem gambling.

Support Organisations & Resources

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available:

Australia

• Gambling Help Online – Free, confidential counselling and support
  Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
  Phone: 1800 858 858 (free call, 24/7)
• Gambler's Help – State-based counselling services across Australia
  Phone: 1800 858 858

International Resources

• GamCare (UK) – www.gamcare.org.uk
• GamStop (UK) – National self-exclusion scheme – www.gamstop.co.uk
• Responsible Gambling Council (Canada) – www.responsiblegambling.org
• National Council on Problem Gambling (USA) – www.ncpgambling.org

Get Help Today

If you believe you have a gambling problem, or if gambling is negatively affecting your life, relationships, or finances, please reach out for help immediately. Seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Contact Gambling Help Online on 1800 858 858 or visit www.gamblinghelponline.org.au for free, confidential support available 24/7 across Australia.

Gambling should be fun. If it stops being fun, stop and seek help.