Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Pokies and online gaming should only be viewed as a form of entertainment, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Like any form of entertainment, it should only cost what you can afford to lose. If you find yourself gambling to make money or recover losses, it's time to seek help.
Age Verification
You must be at least 18 years of age or the legal age in your jurisdiction to gamble in Australia. If you are under the legal age, please do not participate in any gambling activities. It is illegal for minors to gamble, and venues are required to refuse service to anyone under the legal age.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Do you recognise any of the following warning signs? If so, you may be developing a gambling problem:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Gambling with money intended for essential expenses (rent, bills, food)
- Hiding gambling activities or lying about the amount spent
- Experiencing mood swings or irritability when unable to gamble
- Neglecting family, friends, work, or study due to gambling
- Borrowing money to fund gambling activities
- Feeling unable to control or stop gambling despite wanting to
- Using gambling as an escape from stress, anxiety, or depression
- Gambling for longer periods than intended
- Failed attempts to reduce or stop gambling
Self-Help Tools & Controls
Most reputable gaming platforms offer tools to help you gamble responsibly:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose
- Time Limits: Set reminders or automatic session timeouts
- Reality Checks: Regular pop-up notifications reminding you how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from gambling platforms for a set period
- Account Restrictions: Limit access to your account or suspend it temporarily
Use these tools proactively. They are designed to protect you.
Support & Help Organizations in Australia
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, help is available:
Gambling Help Online
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Free, confidential counselling and support for problem gambling in Australia. Available online and by phone.
National Gambling Helpline (1800 858 858)
Call 1800 858 858 for free, confidential support 24/7 across Australia.
Gambler's Help
State-based counselling services across Australia providing free support to problem gamblers and their families.
International Support Organizations
GamCare (UK)
GamStop (UK Self-Exclusion)
Responsible Gambling Council (Canada)
National Council on Problem Gambling (USA)
If You Need Help, Reach Out Today
Problem gambling is treatable. You are not alone, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether you're experiencing gambling problems yourself or are concerned about someone else, support is available and confidential.
Don't wait — contact Gambling Help Online or call the National Gambling Helpline on 1800 858 858 today.