Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
At actionpvaw.org.au, we're committed to promoting responsible gambling practices. Online gaming and casino play should only ever be viewed as entertainment—similar to going to the movies or attending a sporting event. It should never be considered a way to earn money or solve financial problems.
Please gamble only with money you can afford to lose and always set strict limits before you start playing.
Age Verification
In Australia, you must be at least 18 years of age to participate in online gambling activities. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet the legal age requirement in your jurisdiction before accessing any casino services.
If you are under 18, please do not proceed. Parents and guardians are encouraged to discuss the risks of gambling with young people and to use parental controls where available.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can affect anyone. Below are common warning signs to watch for:
- Chasing losses: Continuing to gamble to try to recover money you've lost
- Hiding gambling: Concealing the extent of your gambling from family or friends
- Increased spending: Gradually betting larger amounts to achieve the same excitement
- Neglecting responsibilities: Missing work, school, or social obligations due to gambling
- Loss of control: Being unable to stick to limits you've set
- Preoccupation: Constantly thinking about gambling or past gambling experiences
- Mood swings: Becoming irritable or anxious when unable to gamble
- Borrowing money: Taking loans or using credit to fund gambling activities
- Failed attempts to quit: Repeatedly trying and failing to reduce or stop gambling
- Using gambling to escape: Gambling to relieve stress, anxiety, or depression
If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, it's important to seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Player Protections
Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you maintain control over your gambling:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Establish a maximum loss threshold before you're prevented from playing further
- Reality Checks: Enable pop-up reminders during play to track the time and money you've spent
- Session Limits: Set automatic time limits for your gaming sessions
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from an online casino for a set period or permanently
- Account Closure: Request permanent account closure if you wish to stop playing
Use these tools proactively. They are there to support your enjoyment and protect your wellbeing.
Support Organizations & Helplines
If you're struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available and confidential. In Australia and internationally, reach out to:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online – Free, confidential online counselling and support
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Phone: 1800 858 858 (24/7 – free call)
United Kingdom
- GamCare – Counselling and support services
www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop – National self-exclusion scheme
www.gamstop.co.uk
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council – Resources and support
www.responsiblegambling.org
United States
- National Council on Problem Gambling – Helpline and resources
www.ncpgambling.org
Helpline: 1-800-522-4700 (24/7)
Germany
- Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) – Health education and support
Telephone counselling available for gambling problems
All services are confidential and free to use. Don't hesitate to reach out—seeking help is a sign of strength.
If You Need Help, Please Reach Out
Problem gambling is a treatable condition. If you or someone you care about is struggling with gambling, please contact one of the support organizations listed above. Professional counsellors are ready to listen without judgment and help you regain control.
Remember: Asking for help is the first step toward recovery. You are not alone.