Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment
Betting and gambling should only ever be viewed as a form of entertainment, never as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While online betting can be enjoyable, it's important to understand that the house always has an edge. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose, and set strict limits before you start.
Age Verification
In Australia, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in gambling activities. It is illegal for minors to gamble. All betting sites operating in Australia are required to verify the age and identity of their users. If you are under 18, please do not attempt to register or gamble on any betting platform.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Recognise these warning signs in yourself or others:
- Chasing losses: Trying to win back money you've lost by gambling more
- Hiding gambling: Being secretive about your betting or lying about how much you gamble
- Loss of control: Gambling more than you intended or for longer than planned
- Neglecting responsibilities: Missing work, school, or family time due to gambling
- Gambling with borrowed money: Using credit cards, loans, or other people's money to fund gambling
- Emotional dependency: Gambling to escape problems, stress, anxiety, or depression
- Tolerance: Needing to bet larger amounts to get the same excitement
- Failed attempts to quit: Repeatedly trying and failing to cut back or stop gambling
- Financial hardship: Gambling causing debt or financial difficulties
- Relationship problems: Arguments with family or friends about your gambling
If you recognise any of these signs, it's time to seek help.
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gambling Features
Most reputable betting sites 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 cap on how much you're willing to lose in a given period
- Betting Limits: Restrict the amount you can wager on individual bets
- Reality Checks: Enable notifications that remind you how long you've been gambling and how much you've spent
- Time-Out: Take a break from gambling for a set period without closing your account
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from betting sites
- Account Closure: Permanently close your account if you wish to stop gambling entirely
Use these tools proactively to maintain healthy gambling habits.
Support & Help Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online – Free, confidential counselling and support for all Australians
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Phone: 1800 858 858 (free call)
International Resources
- GamCare (UK) – Free support and counselling
www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (UK) – National self-exclusion scheme
www.gamstop.co.uk - Responsible Gambling Council (Canada) – Education and support
www.responsiblegambling.org - National Council on Problem Gambling (USA) – Help and resources
www.ncpgambling.org
Need Help? Take Action Today
If you believe you have a problem with gambling, or if someone you care about does, reach out for help immediately. There is no shame in seeking support – problem gambling is a recognised condition, and professional help works.
Contact Gambling Help Online on 1800 858 858 for free, confidential advice and treatment options.
Your wellbeing is more important than any bet. Help is available, and recovery is possible.