Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Betting and gaming should only ever be viewed as a form of entertainment, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While online betting can be enjoyable, it's important to understand that the odds always favour the house. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose, and never see it as an investment or income source.
Age Verification
In Australia, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online betting and gaming activities. It is illegal for anyone under 18 to gamble. All licensed betting operators are required to verify your age before allowing access to their services.
If you are underage, please do not attempt to register or gamble. If you are concerned about a young person's gambling, contact the appropriate support services listed below.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Be aware of these warning signs:
- Chasing losses: Continuing to gamble to win back money you've lost
- Hiding gambling: Concealing the extent or nature of your gambling from friends and family
- Loss of control: Being unable to stop gambling or stick to set limits
- Neglecting responsibilities: Missing work, school, or family obligations due to gambling
- Using gambling to escape: Gambling to relieve stress, anxiety, or depression
- Borrowing to gamble: Taking out loans or using credit to fund gambling
- Increasing stakes: Needing to gamble with larger amounts to feel the same excitement
- Relationship problems: Arguments with loved ones about your gambling habits
- Financial difficulties: Running out of money earlier than expected or struggling with bills
- Irritability when not gambling: Feeling anxious or moody when unable to gamble
If you recognize any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Controls
Responsible online betting operators provide tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount of losses you're willing to accept during a session or time period
- Wagering Limits: Cap the amount you can stake on individual bets
- Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders of how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Session Timeouts: Automatically log out after a set period of inactivity
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from betting accounts
- Account Closure: Permanently close your account if needed
Use these tools to stay in control. Most Australian betting operators are required by law to offer these protections.
Support Organizations
If you or someone you know needs help with problem gambling, please reach out to these organizations:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online — Free, confidential counselling and support
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Phone: 1800 858 858 (24/7, free call)
United Kingdom
- GamCare — Free support and information
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop — National self-exclusion scheme
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council — Resources and support
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
United States
- National Council on Problem Gambling — Help and referral services
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
Helpline: 1-800-522-4700 (24/7, free and confidential)
Germany
- Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) — Federal Centre for Health Education
Website: www.bzga.de
If You Need Help, Reach Out Today
Problem gambling is treatable, and help is available. There is no shame in seeking support. Whether you're experiencing difficulties yourself or are concerned about someone else, the organizations above offer free, confidential assistance.
Do not wait. Contact Gambling Help Online on 1800 858 858 or visit www.gamblinghelponline.org.au today.
Remember: Your wellbeing matters more than any bet.