Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Fun, Not a Financial Solution

Online pokies and casino games are designed for entertainment purposes only. They should never be viewed as a way to earn money, solve financial problems, or generate income. The odds are always in favour of the house, and losses are an expected part of gaming. Play only with money you can afford to lose, and treat any winnings as a bonus, not an income source.

At gco.org.au, we're committed to promoting safe and responsible gaming practices for all Australian players.

Age Verification

Online pokies and casino gaming in Australia is strictly limited to individuals who are 18 years of age or older. It is illegal for minors to participate in gambling activities.

By accessing any gaming platform through gco.org.au, you confirm that:

• You are at least 18 years old
• You are not excluded from gambling by law or regulation in your jurisdiction
• You understand the risks associated with gambling

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can affect anyone. If you recognise any of these warning signs in yourself or someone you know, it's important to seek help immediately:

• Chasing losses: Continuing to gamble in an attempt to recover money you've lost
• Hiding gambling activity: Concealing the amount of time or money spent gambling from family or friends
• Increased spending: Needing to gamble with larger amounts to feel the same excitement
• Loss of control: Being unable to stop gambling or stick to preset limits
• Neglecting responsibilities: Missing work, family time, or other obligations due to gambling
• Using gambling to cope: Gambling to relieve stress, anxiety, or depression
• Relationship problems: Arguments with family or friends about gambling habits
• Financial difficulties: Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
• Irritability when not gambling: Feeling anxious or upset when unable to gamble
• Failed attempts to quit: Repeatedly trying and failing to reduce or stop gambling

Self-Help Tools & Player Protections

Most reputable Australian gaming operators provide the following 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 maximum amount you're willing to lose within a specific period
• Reality Checks: Receive regular pop-up reminders during gaming sessions showing how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing gaming platforms
• Time-Out Periods: Take a break from gambling for a set period without closing your account
• Account Closure: Close your gaming account if you decide to stop gambling permanently

We strongly encourage all players to use these tools proactively to maintain safe and enjoyable gaming experiences.

Support Organisations & Resources

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Please reach out to one of the following organisations:

Australia

• Gambling Help Online
  Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
  Free, confidential counselling and support services for Australians affected by problem gambling. Available 24/7.
• Gamblers Anonymous Australia
  Peer-support meetings across Australia. Call for local meeting information.
• Beyond Blue
  Website: www.beyondblue.org.au
  Mental health support services including support for gambling-related issues.

International Resources

• United Kingdom
  • GamCare: www.gamcare.org.uk
  • GamStop (Self-Exclusion Scheme): www.gamstop.co.uk
• United States
  • National Council on Problem Gambling: www.ncpgambling.org
• Canada
  • Responsible Gambling Council: www.responsiblegambling.org
• Germany
  • Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA): www.bzga.de

If You Need Help

Problem gambling is treatable, and support is available. Reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

If you're struggling with gambling or worried about someone else's gambling habits:

• Contact Gambling Help Online for confidential support
• Speak to a trusted friend, family member, or healthcare professional
• Use the self-exclusion tools available on gaming platforms
• Consider seeking counselling from a qualified mental health professional

You don't have to face this alone. Help is just a phone call or click away.