Responsible Gaming
Play Responsibly
Online pokies should be enjoyed as entertainment only. Gambling is not a way to make money or solve financial problems. Play within your means and always gamble for fun, never out of desperation or as a source of income.
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 gambling in Australia. Gambling is strictly prohibited for anyone under the legal age. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet all legal requirements before playing.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you experience any of the following, you may have a gambling problem. Please seek help:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Gambling with money intended for bills, rent, or essentials
- Hiding your gambling activity from family or friends
- Feeling anxious or irritable when unable to gamble
- Spending more time or money gambling than intended
- Lying about the amount of time or money spent gambling
- Neglecting work, study, or personal relationships due to gambling
- Borrowing money to fund gambling
- Failed attempts to reduce or stop gambling
- Using gambling to escape stress, anxiety, or depression
Self-Help Tools & Limits
Most licensed online pokies operators provide 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 during a gambling session
- Reality Checks: Receive reminders at regular intervals during play to reflect on your activity
- Session Time Limits: Restrict the amount of time you can play in a single session
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling sites for a period you choose
Use these tools proactively. They're designed to help you stay in control of your gambling.
Support & Help Resources
If you're struggling with problem gambling, confidential support is available. Contact one of these organisations:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au — Free, confidential counselling and support services
- National Gambling Helpline: 1800 858 858 (free call from landlines and mobiles)
International Resources
- UK - GamCare: www.gamcare.org.uk
- UK - GamStop: www.gamstop.co.uk — National self-exclusion scheme
- Canada - Responsible Gambling Council: www.responsiblegambling.org
- US - National Council on Problem Gambling: www.ncpgambling.org | 1-800-522-4700
Get Help Today
If gambling is affecting your life, finances, relationships, or mental health, reach out for help immediately. There is no shame in seeking support. Trained counsellors are available 24/7 and all conversations are confidential.
Contact Gambling Help Online on 1800 858 858 or visit www.gamblinghelponline.org.au