Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Online pokies and casino games should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. They are games of chance with outcomes determined by random number generators. Gambling should never be considered a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose, and set realistic expectations about potential losses.
Age Verification
In Australia, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in gambling activities. It is illegal for anyone under 18 to access online pokies or casino games. If you are under 18, please do not use these services. Parents and guardians are encouraged to monitor young people's online activity and discuss the risks of gambling.
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: Being secretive about how much time or money you spend gambling
- Increasing stakes: Needing to gamble with larger amounts to get the same excitement
- Failed attempts to quit: Repeatedly trying to cut back or stop but unable to do so
- Neglecting responsibilities: Gambling instead of paying bills, working, or caring for family
- Relationship problems: Friends or family expressing concern about your gambling
- Borrowing to gamble: Using credit cards, loans, or borrowed money to fund gambling
- Emotional distress: Feeling anxious, depressed, or irritable when not gambling or when trying to stop
- Using gambling to escape: Gambling to cope with stress, anxiety, or other negative feelings
- Loss of control: Gambling longer or with more money than intended
If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, help is available.
Self-Help Tools & Protective Measures
Many online gaming platforms offer tools to help you gamble responsibly:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose before stopping play
- Reality Checks: Receive pop-up reminders during play sessions about how long you've been gambling and how much you've spent
- Time-Out/Cool-Off: Take a break from gambling for a set period (hours, days, or weeks)
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from an online gaming platform for an extended period
- Account Closure: Permanently close your gaming account if you wish to stop
Use these tools proactively to maintain control over your gambling activity.
Support Organisations & Resources
If you're struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online – Free, confidential counselling and support services
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
National Helpline: 1800 858 858 (free call)
International Resources
- GamCare (United Kingdom) – Free support and self-help tools
www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (United Kingdom) – National self-exclusion scheme
www.gamstop.co.uk - Responsible Gambling Council (Canada) – Information and support resources
www.responsiblegambling.org - National Council on Problem Gambling (United States) – Helpline and treatment resources
www.ncpgambling.org
These organisations provide confidential support, counselling, treatment options, and resources for people affected by problem gambling, whether you're gambling yourself or concerned about someone else.
If You Have a Problem, Seek Help Now
Problem gambling is a treatable condition. If you feel your gambling is becoming problematic, reach out for help immediately. There is no shame in seeking support—many people have successfully overcome gambling problems with professional help.
Contact Gambling Help Online on 1800 858 858 for free, confidential advice and support tailored to your situation. You can also access online counselling through their website at www.gamblinghelponline.org.au.
Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or healthcare provider if you need additional support.