Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Fun, Not a Financial Solution

Online pokies and gaming should be enjoyed as entertainment only. They are games of chance with outcomes determined by random number generators. Never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose, and never view gaming as a way to earn income or solve financial problems. The house always has a mathematical edge in the long term.

Age Verification

You must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online gaming in Australia. By accessing gaming platforms, you confirm that you meet the legal age requirement in your jurisdiction and that you are not prohibited from gambling under Australian law.

If you are under 18, please do not proceed. Underage gambling can cause serious harm.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop gradually. Check yourself against these warning signs:

• Chasing losses by gambling more to win back money you've lost
• Gambling with increasing amounts of money to achieve the same excitement
• Hiding your gambling activity from family, friends, or financial advisors
• Neglecting work, study, family, or personal responsibilities due to gambling
• Experiencing mood changes (irritability, anxiety, or depression) related to gambling
• Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
• Feeling unable to stop or control your gambling despite wanting to
• Using gambling to escape problems or relieve stress
• Lying about how much time or money you spend on gambling
• Experiencing relationship conflicts because of your gaming

If you recognize any of these signs, seek help immediately.

Self-Help Tools & Protective Measures

Most reputable gaming providers offer tools to help you maintain control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Restrict the maximum amount you're willing to lose in a session or time period
• Reality Checks: Enable reminders during play to check how much time and money you've spent
• Session Time Limits: Set automatic disconnection after a certain period of play
• Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from gaming platforms for a set duration (days, months, or years)
• Account Closure: Permanently close your gaming account if needed

Use these tools proactively. They are designed to protect you and maintain gaming as entertainment.

Professional Support & Help Services

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

Australia

• Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au — Free confidential counselling and support (phone, chat, email)
• Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14 — 24/7 crisis support
• Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636 — Mental health support

International Resources

• United Kingdom: GamCare (www.gamcare.org.uk) and GamStop (www.gamstop.co.uk)
• Canada: Responsible Gambling Council (www.responsiblegambling.org)
• United States: National Council on Problem Gambling (www.ncpgambling.org)

These services are confidential, non-judgmental, and often free.

Take Action Today

If you think you may have a problem with gambling, or if someone close to you does, reach out for help now. Problem gambling is treatable, and support is available.

Remember: Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. The sooner you reach out, the sooner you can regain control.

Contact Gambling Help Online today — it's free and confidential.