Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Online gaming and pokies 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 within your means.
Remember: the house always has an edge. Never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose.
Age Verification
In Australia, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online gaming and pokies. It is illegal for anyone under 18 to access these services.
If you are under 18, please do not proceed. Underage gambling can cause serious harm to your development and future.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Be aware of these warning signs that may indicate a gambling problem:
- Chasing losses: Trying to recover losses by gambling more
- Hiding gambling activity: Concealing the extent of your gambling from family or friends
- Gambling with money for essentials: Using funds needed for rent, bills, or food
- Inability to stop: Unsuccessful attempts to reduce or quit gambling
- Gambling to escape: Using gambling to cope with stress, anxiety, or depression
- Neglecting responsibilities: Missing work, school, or family obligations due to gambling
- Borrowing money to gamble: Taking loans or using credit to fund gambling
- Mood swings: Becoming irritable or anxious when unable to gamble
- Increasing stakes: Needing to bet more to achieve the same excitement
If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, help is available.
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online gaming platforms offer tools to help you stay in control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose in a session or over time
- Session Time Limits: Automatically log out after a set period of time
- Reality Checks: Receive reminders about how long you've been gambling and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Exclude yourself from gaming services for a period you choose (days, weeks, months, or years)
- Account Closure: Permanently close your gaming account if needed
Use these tools proactively to maintain control over your gaming habits.
Support Organizations
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, confidential support is available:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Free, confidential online and telephone counselling service available 24/7. Phone: 1800 858 858
International Resources
- GamCare (United Kingdom): www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (United Kingdom): www.gamstop.co.uk
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): www.responsiblegambling.org
- National Council on Problem Gambling (United States): www.ncpgambling.org
All support services are confidential, non-judgmental, and free to access.
If You Need Help
If you or someone you care about is experiencing problems with gambling, please reach out for support today. There is no shame in seeking help, and trained professionals are ready to assist you.
Contact Gambling Help Online now:
- Phone: 1800 858 858 (available 24/7)
- Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Recovery is possible, and help is just a call or click away.