Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
PayID pokies and online gaming should only ever be viewed as a form of entertainment, similar to going to the movies or playing sports. It should never be considered as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. The house always has a mathematical advantage, and losses are always possible. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
Gaming is strictly for adults only. In Australia, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in any form of gambling, including PayID pokies. If you are under 18, please do not participate. If you are aware of someone under 18 gambling, please report it to the relevant authorities.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognize any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, it may indicate a problem with gambling:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Gambling with money intended for essentials (rent, bills, food)
- Hiding gambling activity or lying about the amount spent
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money to feel excitement
- Unsuccessful attempts to cut down or control gambling
- Neglecting work, school, family, or social responsibilities
- Borrowing money to fund gambling or pay off debts
- Experiencing relationship problems due to gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable gaming platforms offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose during a session or time period
- Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders during gaming sessions about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Time-Out/Cool-Off: Take a break from gaming for a set period without closing your account
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from gaming for a longer period (days, weeks, months, or years)
- Account Closure: Permanently close your account if needed
Use these tools proactively to maintain healthy gaming habits.
Support & Help Organizations
If you need help or support regarding problem gambling, the following organizations provide free, confidential assistance:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online - Free counselling service for problem gambling in Australia
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Phone: 1800 858 858 (24/7, free call)
International Organizations
- GamCare (United Kingdom) - Support and information for problem gambling
www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (United Kingdom) - National self-exclusion scheme
www.gamstop.co.uk - Responsible Gambling Council (Canada) - Resources and support
www.responsiblegambling.org - National Council on Problem Gambling (United States) - Help and resources
www.ncpgambling.org
These organizations offer counselling, support groups, educational resources, and self-exclusion options.
Need Help?
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, please reach out for help. Support is available, and seeking assistance is a sign of strength, not weakness. You don't have to face this alone.
Contact Gambling Help Online on 1800 858 858 (24/7, free and confidential) or visit www.gamblinghelponline.org.au.
Remember: Gaming should be fun. If it stops being fun, it's time to seek help.