Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Entertainment

Online gaming 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 remember that the house always has an edge, and you should never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose.

Set realistic expectations, play within your means, and always prioritize your financial wellbeing and personal safety.

Age Verification & Legal Requirements

You must be at least 18 years of age or the legal gambling age in your state or territory in Australia to access and use gaming services.

It is illegal for anyone under the legal age to gamble online. Parents and guardians are encouraged to monitor online activity and discuss the risks of gambling with young people in their care.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

If you recognize any of the following signs, you may be developing a gambling problem:

• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money you've lost
• Hiding or lying about the time and money spent gambling
• Gambling with money needed for essential expenses (rent, bills, food)
• Neglecting work, school, family, or social obligations due to gambling
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
• Needing to gamble with larger amounts to achieve the same excitement
• Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
• Using gambling to escape problems or cope with negative emotions
• Borrowing money to fund gambling activities
• Relationship conflicts related to gambling behavior

If you identify with several of these signs, it's time to seek help.

Self-Help Tools & Controls

Most online gaming platforms offer responsible gaming tools to help you maintain control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose in a given period
• Session Time Limits: Limit the duration of your gaming sessions
• Reality Checks: Enable notifications that remind you how long you've been playing and how much you've wagered
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming platforms
• Account Closure: Close your account if you need a complete break from gambling

Make use of these tools proactively. If a gaming site doesn't provide adequate controls, choose a different provider.

Support & Counseling Services

Help is available. If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, reach out to one of these organizations:

Australia

• Gambling Help Online – Free, confidential support for people in Australia
  www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
  Phone: 1800 858 858
• Gamblers Anonymous Australia – Peer support meetings and resources
  www.gamblersanonymous.org.au

United Kingdom

• GamCare – Free advice, support, and counseling
  www.gamcare.org.uk
• GamStop – National self-exclusion scheme
  www.gamstop.co.uk

Canada

• Responsible Gambling Council – Research, education, and advocacy
  www.responsiblegambling.org

United States

• National Council on Problem Gambling – Resources and referrals
  www.ncpgambling.org
  National Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-522-4700

Germany

• Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) – Federal health awareness center
  www.bzga.de

If You Need Help, Please Reach Out

If you or someone you care about is struggling with problem gambling, don't suffer in silence. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Professional counselors and support groups are available 24/7 and are here to assist you.

Contact Gambling Help Online at 1800 858 858 or visit www.gamblinghelponline.org.au for confidential support.

Your wellbeing is more important than any bet.