Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Entertainment

Online pokies and gaming should only ever be viewed as a form of entertainment, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Like any form of entertainment, it comes with risks and should only be enjoyed responsibly with money you can afford to lose.

Please play within your means and set strict limits on both time and money before you begin.

Age Verification

You must be at least 18 years of age (or the legal gambling age in your jurisdiction) to participate in online gaming and pokies.

If you are under the legal age, we strongly encourage you not to gamble. If you have concerns about a young person's gambling, please contact the support organizations listed below.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

If you experience any of the following, you may be developing a gambling problem:

  • Chasing losses by gambling more money to recover what you've lost
  • Hiding your gambling activities or lying about how much you gamble
  • Gambling with money needed for essential expenses (rent, food, bills)
  • Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
  • Gambling for longer periods or with larger amounts than intended
  • Neglecting work, study, family, or social commitments due to gambling
  • Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
  • Failed attempts to cut down or stop gambling
  • Using gambling to escape problems or manage negative emotions
  • Others expressing concern about your gambling habits

Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features

Most reputable online gaming platforms offer tools to help you maintain control:

  • Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a set timeframe (daily, weekly, monthly)
  • Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose during a session or period
  • Session Time Limits: Automatically log you out after a set period of play
  • Reality Checks: Regular pop-up reminders showing your time spent and money wagered
  • Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing gambling services
  • Cooling-Off Periods: Take a break from gambling for a set duration

We encourage you to use these tools proactively to maintain healthy gaming habits.

Support Organizations & Help Resources

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available:

Australia

  • Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au — Free, confidential counseling and support services available 24/7 across Australia
  • Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14 — Available 24 hours a day
  • Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636 — Mental health support and counseling

United Kingdom

Canada

United States

  • National Council on Problem Gambling: www.ncpgambling.org — Free helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537)

Germany

  • Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung: Resources and information for problem gambling support

Need Help?

If you believe you have a gambling problem or are concerned about someone else's gambling, please seek help immediately. Reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness.

The organizations listed above offer free, confidential, and professional support. Contact them today—help is always available.

Voices for Riverina is committed to promoting responsible gaming. This information is accurate as of 2026 and reflects current best practices in player protection.