Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Online pokies and casino games should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. They are games of chance with no guaranteed way to earn money. Always remember that the odds favor the house, and you should only ever gamble with money you can afford to lose. Set realistic expectations and never view gambling as a source of income or a way to solve financial problems.
Age Verification
In Australia, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online gambling and gaming. It is illegal for anyone under 18 to access gambling services. If you are not yet 18, please do not use gambling platforms. Parents and guardians are encouraged to use parental controls and monitoring tools to protect minors.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognize any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, it may indicate a problem with gambling:
- Chasing losses: Trying to win back money you have lost by gambling more
- Hiding gambling activity: Keeping your gambling secret from family or friends
- Loss of control: Being unable to stop or cut back on gambling
- Neglecting responsibilities: Missing work, school, or family obligations due to gambling
- Financial problems: Borrowing money or going into debt to gamble
- Mood changes: Becoming irritable, anxious, or depressed when unable to gamble
- Escalating stakes: Needing to gamble with larger amounts to achieve the same excitement
- Failed attempts to quit: Repeatedly trying and failing to reduce or stop gambling
- Relationship strain: Experiencing conflict with loved ones about your gambling
- Using gambling to cope: Gambling to escape stress, anxiety, or other problems
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online gaming platforms offer tools to help you maintain control over your gambling. These include:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount of money you can deposit within a specific time period
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose in a day, week, or month
- Betting Limits: Restrict the size of individual bets you can place
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders of how long you have been playing and how much you have spent
- Time-Out/Cooling-Off Periods: Temporarily suspend your account for a set period (hours to weeks)
- Self-Exclusion: Permanently or temporarily exclude yourself from accessing gaming platforms
- Account Statements: Review detailed records of your gambling activity and spending
We strongly encourage you to use these tools as part of your responsible gaming strategy.
Get Help – Support Organizations for Australia
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, professional support is available. The following organizations provide free, confidential assistance:
Australia
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Gambling Help Online
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Provides counseling, self-assessment tools, and resources for problem gambling in Australia -
Lifeline Australia
Phone: 13 11 14
24/7 crisis support for Australians experiencing emotional distress -
Beyond Blue
Phone: 1300 224 636
Support for depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns related to gambling
International Support
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GamCare (United Kingdom)
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
Free gambling support and advice -
GamStop (United Kingdom)
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling -
Responsible Gambling Council (Canada)
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
Research and resources on responsible gambling practices -
National Council on Problem Gambling (United States)
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
National helpline: 1-800-522-4700
Need Help? Take Action Today
If you believe you have a problem with gambling, reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Help is available, and recovery is possible. Please contact one of the organizations listed above or speak with a trusted friend, family member, or healthcare professional.
Remember: You are not alone. Free, confidential support is available 24/7.
This Responsible Gaming information is provided for your protection and well-being. Demolition Brisbane strongly promotes responsible gaming and supports harm minimization efforts. If you choose to gamble, do so responsibly and within your means.