Responsible Gaming
Our Commitment to Safe Gaming
At friendsofgulfstvincent.org.au, we are committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. Gambling should be enjoyed as entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. We encourage all players to gamble responsibly and within their means.
Age Verification
In Australia, you must be at least 18 years of age to participate in online gambling and poker machine gaming. By accessing our site and engaging in any gaming activities, you confirm that you are of legal age in your jurisdiction. We take age verification seriously and reserve the right to request proof of age at any time.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs in your own behaviour, it may be time to seek help:
- Chasing losses by gambling with more money to recover what you've lost
- Gambling with money needed for essential expenses (rent, bills, food)
- Hiding gambling activities or lying about the amount of time or money spent gambling
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when trying to cut down or stop gambling
- Neglecting family, work, or other important responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money to fund gambling activities
- Experiencing relationship problems caused by gambling
- Using gambling as a way to escape problems or negative emotions
- Failed attempts to reduce or control gambling
- Gambling longer or with larger amounts than originally intended
Self-Help Tools & Safer Gaming Features
Most reputable online gaming platforms offer tools to help you maintain control of your gambling:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period
- Loss Limits: Set a cap on how much you're willing to lose in a session or week
- Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders of how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Session Time Limits: Set automatic logouts after a specified period
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming sites
- Account Closure: Permanently close your account if needed
Take advantage of these tools and use them proactively to manage your gaming habits.
Support & Help Services
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. The following organisations provide confidential support:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au – Free, confidential counselling and support services for Australians affected by problem gambling
- Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14 – Crisis support and counselling
- Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636 – Mental health support
International Resources
- GamCare (UK): www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (UK): www.gamstop.co.uk – National self-exclusion scheme
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): www.responsiblegambling.org
- National Council on Problem Gambling (USA): www.ncpgambling.org
Take Action Today
If you have concerns about your gambling or that of someone close to you, please reach out for help immediately. Remember:
- Problem gambling is a treatable condition
- Support services are free and confidential
- It's never too late to seek assistance
- Many people successfully recover with appropriate support
Contact Gambling Help Online today on 1800 858 858 (toll-free) or visit www.gamblinghelponline.org.au for immediate support.
Gambling should be fun. If it stops being fun, it's time to seek help.