Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
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. Always gamble 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 access and use poker machine services in Australia. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet these legal requirements before participating in any gambling activities.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognize any of the following behaviours in yourself, it may be time to seek help:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Hiding gambling activity or lying about the amount of time or money spent
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Gambling with increasing amounts of money to achieve the same excitement
- Failed attempts to cut down or control gambling
- Neglecting family, work, or personal responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Experiencing relationship problems due to gambling habits
- Using gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
- Continuing to gamble despite negative financial or personal consequences
Self-Help Tools & Safer Gaming Features
Take control of your gambling with these practical tools:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Establish a maximum amount you're willing to lose and stop playing once reached
- Reality Checks: Enable pop-up reminders during play sessions to help you track time and spending
- Self-Exclusion: Take a break from gambling by temporarily or permanently excluding yourself from your account
- Session Time Limits: Set a time limit for each gambling session
- Cool-Off Periods: Request a temporary suspension of your account to take a break
Support & Help Organizations
If you or someone you know needs help with problem gambling, reach out to these organizations:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au — Free, confidential online and phone counselling service
- Gamblers Anonymous: Support meetings and peer assistance across Australia
- State-based gambling helplines: Contact your local health department for state-specific support services
International Support
- United Kingdom — GamCare: www.gamcare.org.uk
- United Kingdom — GamStop: www.gamstop.co.uk
- Canada — Responsible Gambling Council: www.responsiblegambling.org
- United States — National Council on Problem Gambling: www.ncpgambling.org
If You Need Help, Reach Out Today
Problem gambling affects many people and their families. Help is available and recovery is possible. If you're struggling with gambling, don't hesitate to contact one of the support organizations listed above. You can also speak to a trusted friend, family member, or healthcare professional.
Remember: Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Contact Gambling Help Online on 1800 858 858 for confidential support in Australia.