Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Entertainment

At speakupsantacruz.org, we believe that online pokies and casino games should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While gaming can be fun and exciting, it's important to approach it with caution and set strict limits on your time and spending.

Remember: The house always has an edge. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose, and never chase losses.

Age Verification

Online gaming in Australia is strictly for individuals aged 18 years or older. It is illegal for minors to participate in gambling activities. We take age verification seriously and encourage all players to confirm their eligibility before participating.

If you are under 18, please do not access gaming sites. If you suspect a minor is gambling, please report it to the relevant authorities.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Do you recognise any of these warning signs in your own behaviour? If so, it may be time to seek help:

• Chasing Losses: Continuously trying to win back money you've lost by gambling more
• Hiding Your Gambling: Being secretive about how much time or money you spend gaming
• Neglecting Responsibilities: Gambling instead of attending to work, school, or family commitments
• Increased Spending: Needing to gamble with larger amounts to get the same excitement
• Loss of Control: Being unable to stop or reduce your gambling despite wanting to
• Financial Problems: Borrowing money, using credit cards, or going into debt to fund gambling
• Mood Changes: Feeling anxious, irritable, or depressed when unable to gamble
• Failed Attempts to Quit: Repeatedly trying and failing to cut back or stop
• Relationship Strain: Friends and family expressing concern about your gambling habits
• Lying About Gambling: Dishonesty with loved ones regarding gambling activity and losses

Self-Help Tools & Controls

Most reputable online gaming operators in Australia offer responsible gaming tools to help you maintain control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a day, week, or month
• Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose in a given time period
• Bet Limits: Restrict the maximum bet size on individual games
• Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders of how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming platforms
• Cooling-Off Periods: Take a mandatory break from gambling for a set period
• Account Closure: Permanently close your account if you wish to stop playing

Talk to your gaming provider about implementing these tools on your account today.

Support Organizations in Australia

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. The following organisations provide free, confidential support in Australia:

Australia

• Gambling Help Online
  Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
  Phone: 1800 858 858 (free, confidential, 24/7)
  Provides counselling, support groups, and resources for problem gambling.

International Support

• GamCare (United Kingdom)
  Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
  Support for problem gambling across the UK and beyond.
• GamStop (United Kingdom)
  Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
  National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling operators.
• Responsible Gambling Council (Canada)
  Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
  Evidence-based resources and support for problem gambling.
• National Council on Problem Gambling (United States)
  Website: www.ncpgambling.org
  National helpline: 1-800-522-4700

Take Action Now

If you believe you have a gambling problem, seek help immediately. There is no shame in asking for support—problem gambling is a recognised condition, and recovery is possible.

Contact Gambling Help Online on 1800 858 858 today. Trained counsellors are available 24/7 to provide confidential assistance.

Your health and wellbeing are more important than any game. Take control today.