Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Online pokies and casino games should only ever be viewed as entertainment, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. The house always has a mathematical advantage, and there is no strategy that guarantees winnings. Please only gamble with money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
In Australia, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in gambling activities. It is illegal for minors to access gambling services. If you are under 18, please do not use any gambling websites or pokies venues.
If you are aware of a minor gambling, please contact local authorities or report it to your gaming regulator.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop quickly. Please check yourself against these warning signs:
- Spending more money or time gambling than intended
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Hiding gambling activity or lying about the amount wagered
- Gambling to escape problems, stress, anxiety, or negative emotions
- Feeling anxious or irritable when unable to gamble
- Neglecting family, work, education, or personal responsibilities
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Friends or family expressing concern about your gambling habits
- Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Experiencing financial difficulties due to gambling
If you recognize any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, please seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable gaming operators provide tools to help you gamble responsibly:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose during a gaming session
- Reality Checks: Enable notifications during play to remind you of time and money spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming platforms
- Session Time Limits: Set maximum play duration for each session
- Account Cool-Off Periods: Take breaks from gambling for days or weeks
Use these tools proactively to maintain control of your gambling.
Support Organizations in Australia
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, confidential help is available:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online – Free, confidential support and counselling
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Phone: 1800 858 858 (24/7, free call)
International Resources
- GamCare (United Kingdom) – Support and self-help tools
www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (United Kingdom) – National self-exclusion scheme
www.gamstop.co.uk - National Council on Problem Gambling (United States)
www.ncpgambling.org
Phone: 1-800-522-4700 - Responsible Gambling Council (Canada)
www.responsiblegambling.org
All services listed above provide free, confidential support to anyone affected by problem gambling.
If You Need Help
Don't wait. Problem gambling can escalate quickly and affect your mental health, relationships, and finances. If you or someone close to you is struggling:
- Contact Gambling Help Online: 1800 858 858 (24/7, free)
- Visit www.gamblinghelponline.org.au for live chat and resources
- Speak to a GP, counsellor, or trusted family member
- Use self-exclusion tools available on gaming websites
Recovery is possible, and help is available. Reach out today.
Disclaimer: Big River Health Clinic does not endorse gambling as a health or financial solution. This information is provided for harm reduction purposes only. Always gamble responsibly and within your means.