Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Fun, Not a Financial Solution
Online pokies and casino games are designed purely for entertainment. They should never be viewed as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. The house always has a mathematical advantage, and the outcome of every game is determined by chance. Play responsibly, within your means, and only with money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
You must be at least 18 years of age (or the legal gambling age in your state or territory) to participate in online pokies and casino games in Australia. It is illegal for anyone under this age to gamble. If you are under 18, please do not use gaming services. Parents and guardians are encouraged to monitor young people's online activity.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Be aware of these warning signs:
- Chasing Losses: Trying to win back money you've lost by gambling more
- Hiding Gambling: Concealing the amount of time or money spent gaming
- Neglecting Responsibilities: Gambling instead of fulfilling work, family, or personal obligations
- Increasing Amounts: Needing to gamble with larger amounts to feel the same excitement
- Failed Attempts to Quit: Repeatedly trying to cut back or stop but being unable to do so
- Mood Changes: Becoming irritable, anxious, or depressed when unable to gamble
- Financial Strain: Borrowing money, using credit, or selling possessions to fund gambling
- Lying About Gambling: Deceiving family, friends, or healthcare providers about gambling habits
- Escapism: Using gambling to cope with stress, anxiety, depression, or other problems
If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools and Controls
Most responsible gaming platforms offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a daily, weekly, or monthly cap on the amount you can deposit
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose in a given period
- Time Limits: Set automatic session timers to remind you when you've been playing
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders of how much time and money you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming platforms
- Account Restrictions: Limit access to your account during specific times
Use these tools proactively. They are designed to support your responsible gaming practice.
Support and Counselling Services
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available. The following organisations provide free, confidential support:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online — Free online counselling and self-assessment tools
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Phone: 1800 858 858 (free, 24/7) - Gamblers Anonymous Australia — Support groups and peer counselling
www.gamblersanonymous.org.au
United Kingdom
- GamCare — Counselling and support services
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 and resources
www.ncpgambling.org
Phone: 1-800-522-4700 (free, confidential, 24/7)
Germany
- Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) — Health education and support
www.bzga.de
If You Need Help, Reach Out Today
There is no shame in seeking help. Problem gambling is a treatable condition, and support is available. Whether you're concerned about your own gambling or that of a loved one, professional counsellors are ready to assist you confidentially and at no cost.
Don't wait — contact one of the organisations above if you or someone you know needs support.