Responsible Gaming
Gambling is a form of entertainment, not a way to make money or solve financial problems. Always play within your means and never treat gambling as a source of income. If gambling stops being fun, it may be time to seek help.
Age Verification
You must be at least 18 years old to gamble legally in Australia. Some venues or online platforms may require you to be older depending on local state or territory laws. Underage gambling is illegal and can lead to serious consequences. We encourage you to verify your age and identity honestly when using any gambling service.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Recognising the signs early is important. Ask yourself if you have experienced any of the following:
- Chasing losses — trying to win back money you have lost
- Hiding gambling activity from family or friends
- Spending more time or money on gambling than intended
- Neglecting work, study, or family responsibilities because of gambling
- Borrowing money or selling possessions to gamble
- Feeling anxious, guilty, or irritable when trying to cut down
- Lying about gambling wins or losses
- Gambling to escape stress, anxiety, or depression
Self-Help Tools
Many reputable gambling operators offer tools to help you stay in control. These tools may include:
- Deposit limits — set a maximum amount you can deposit in a day, week, or month
- Loss limits — cap the amount you are willing to lose over a period
- Reality checks — receive reminders about how long you have been playing
- Session time limits — restrict the length of your gambling sessions
- Self-exclusion — block yourself from accessing a gambling site or venue for a set period
- Time-out periods — take a short break from gambling for 24 hours to several weeks
Support Organizations
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, free and confidential help is available. Contact the relevant organization in your country or region:
- Australia: Gambling Help Online — 24/7 free counselling and support. Call 1800 858 858.
- United Kingdom: GamCare — support and information. Also GamStop — self-exclusion scheme for UK online gambling.
- Canada: Responsible Gambling Council — resources and prevention programs.
- United States: National Council on Problem Gambling — call or text 1-800-GAMBLER.
- Germany: Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) — information and help for gambling addiction.
- Other countries: Please use the most relevant national gambling support service in your location. Many countries have dedicated helplines and online resources.
Need Help?
If you recognise any warning signs in yourself or someone close to you, please seek help immediately. Speaking to a trained professional can make a real difference. In Australia, contact Gambling Help Online or call 1800 858 858 for free, confidential support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.